"After Due Consideration"
By: Syan Daywalker - Bounty Hunter
and Zen Wayland - Smuggler

Location: Aboard Aesir and Basilisk
Date: Niothe 11, 4 ABY

***

Zen sat comfortable in the air recycled coolness of the Aesir, while Syan had a hissy fit.

"Look, you know I'm right on this. Besides, I do have an uncanny ability to be...get inside the head of these 'space rats'. I know how they think, and I know how to work them. That's a fact, that even Tana will attest too," Zen said, resisting the urge to touch the medallion underneath his shirt. "Hell, it's what I'm known for."

"You can't be that well known if I've never heard of you, Wayland," Syan countered, taking the bottle of mineral water from his lips. The situation was getting way out of control. This was the first time in a long time that visible dislike from Syan did not result in immediate withdrawal from his eyesight.

The bounty hunter took his ankle from across his knee and let the boot fall heavily on the floor. He drew a cloth from his pocket and wiped the condensation from the table where the bottle had been sitting. "This is not a game for amateurs, Wayland, and even if you are immune that doesn't mean you can bring a Mason in."

"I can assure you, I am no amateur," Zen said, making sure not to get annoyed. He was a guest after all. "But I'm not foolish enough to bring in a smuggler with Vicks Mason's reputation by myself either. However, if you and I work together, that would work for both our reputations. You do it alone, and you'll end up dead. I doubt Tana would like that."

"Leave her out of this conversation," Syan growled. The web of options spun its silk again and Syan said, "Is that your seven-seven-five I saw as I was landing? How well armed is it?"

"Two turbolaser cannon batteries, one on its starboard, one slung underneath, and two proton torpedo launchers. Not to mention the four A-Wings attached to it," Zen answered, letting his pride slip out. "Better armed than this baby, even if it was modified."

Syan always wondered why some men measured their manhood by the size of their ships. "Good, because I'll need an armed ship. The target has a modified YT-1300, and those are nasty jobs to go up against. If things get difficult and it becomes a space fight, I'd rather my ship not take the beating. If you want in on this, you ante up your ship in the deal and get fifteen percent of the bounty." He blinked his hazel eyes once and continued, "It's not negotiable."

"Fifteen percent?" Wayland tried to look hurt, but he couldn't. It was better than ferrying whores around. "It's a deal."

Syan didn't bother replying to that. He got up from the flight couch. "How long does it take you to get that thing prepped? This girl's on the run, or dug deep in a hole, so the faster I'm on her, the better it is."

Zen reached into his pocket and pulled out a comm link. "Salab, get the Basilisk prepped."

"Chak! Chak!" came the little voice from the Basilisk.

"It'll be prepped by the time we get there," Wayland told the hunter with confidence.

***

Clad from head to foot in black, Syan was again in hunting garb. He unsheathed his vibrokatana and folded the glaive, slipping it into its hip sleeve. The Dewback coat was the last to go on, hanging heavy along his sides. He slipped on the pair of DD6s and strapped on another hold out.

Once he was dressed, he turned to his android. "Eighteen, fly Aesir over to New Plouton and put her in hangar storage there. You should have enough slush to keep her there for a few months if you have to. Arm the security, but you and the rest of the droids can stay powered down, or get oil baths, or whatever it is you do when I'm not around."

AC-18 bent awkwardly at the waist, bowing slightly. "Yes, Master Syan. Might I enquire as to when you'll be back?"

Syan smiled a little. "You might, but I don't have an answer for you. With the information I bought, it shouldn't be too long. Remember, button this ship up tight once you've got her in the hangar."

"Yes, Master Syan."

Syan crouched down and lifted the two cargo cases by their handles, bouncing them once to resettle the grip. He nodded at Zen to descend the ramp first. "Let's go."

Zen lead the way to his ship, covering the distance faster than he had previously. Salab was waiting for him at the bottom of the ramp, a wrench in his hand.

"Que Lurdo?"

"That's Tana's brother," Zen explained, nudging the little Ewok back up the ramp.

"Ooohh...uh oh." The fuzzball ran back up the ramp, shooing the R2 units out of the way and taking his seat in an engineering console.

"Make yourself at home, Syan," Wayland said, as he headed to the cockpit.

As soon as Syan stepped aboard he regretted it. This ship - Basilisk, Wayland had called it - was nothing at all like Aesir. Where the Nubian was all clean lines, this Corellian deathtrap was crude angles. Aesir was polished and slick, Basilisk was hard and gritty. But then his previous ship hadn't been as good as Aesir either, and amenities meant little to him.

Something about the Ewok fur tickled Syan's nose but he withheld the sneeze. He kicked one of the R2s as they were passing by. The dome spun around until one of the lenses was facing him. "Show me where the cargo hold is. Now." The droid breeped an insult at him but led him back into the ship all the same.

"Please do not kick the droids!" Zen called from the cockpit. He heard a loud huff so he just shook his head. That man needed to relax. His fingers flew over the consoles, activating the repulsor lifts. Sure, his ship was old and craggy, but this baby never let him down. The ship shuddered slightly and lifted into the air, its nose pointed at the horizon. Full power came quickly, and within minutes they were exiting the atmosphere and heading into open space. "Syan, come here. I'll show you another reason why you should learn to trust me."

After stowing his gear, Syan's trip to the cockpit had been delayed by looking out a sideport at Aesir lifting off from the desert and rising into the thin clouds. After watching his ship disappear in the sunlight, Syan slipped back on his black visors and went into the cramped cockpit.

"I don't trust anyone, Wayland," the bounty hunter said as he sat in the co-pilot chair. "What is it you want to show me?"

"How long does it take your ship to compute hyperspace coordinates?" Zen asked.

Syan thought about it. "Depends on the distance and the area of space, but usually fifteen to twenty seconds for a jump of this length."

"Then time me," Wayland said, as his hands flew across the board. Within five seconds, he hit the HS engine button, and the ship jumped into hyperspace, leaving the little shining orb of Chimearia behind.

One eyebrow raised slightly at the computations, and not one to believe boasts, Syan checked the computations against what he expected. They were right on. "Impressive," Syan admitted. "Now try not to fly us into a star." Syan sat back in the co-pilot chair and stared out through the cylindrical cockpit at the mottled hyperspace. Thrust out ahead of the ship like the cockpit was, it almost felt as if Syan could reach out and touch hyperspace. Of course that way led to madness.

Zen just smiled and shook his head, knowing they'd be fine. His thoughts went on to the cash they would get from this bounty. Even with only fifteen percent, that was still a nice chunk. Maybe he could get a nice new speeder bike he saw back on Corcusant. He loved those things.

---

"Stranger Out of Place"
by Koran Darr
Grel Horan [NPC]
and Amren Kidr'al

Location: Shadow of Avarice, En route to Coruscant
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

From deep within his meditation, Koran Darr could still hear the sounds of Grel Horan's incessant blathering. Amren's low, rumbling voice soothed Koran's consciousness as he swam upward toward full awareness.

"Look, I dunno 'bout you, Ammie, but I don't like that we're heading straight into what was once the heart of the Empire. Palpy may be fertilizing the gardens of the Imperial palace now, but all his people aren't. And, we go in there with Mr. Jedi Knight, and they're sure to lock us away until the next Empire rises."

"They won't lock you away," Koran said as he stepped into the open doorway, "because they won't know I'm there. I know how to stay hidden, and if things are as bad as you've said, then it would serve no good to find myself into a new prison. But, I must find out if there are others who survived the purge."

"Yeah," Grel snapped as he turned and cast an indignant glare at Koran, "just as long as you're not gonna be getting us killed. Hey! Maybe when we're there, you can get more people under your spell like poor, Ammie here."

"I'm not under his spell," Amren said with a frown. "He's a Jedi Knight, and...the Jedi should be respected. It's not because he's done anything...it's just the way it is."

Grel laughed, a grating snort accompanied with a slapping of his knee. "Oh, that's great, Amm," he said. "That's just the way it is. Oh, just the way your head is supposed to be as soft as a Hutt's backside."

"The Jedi Knights were protectors and they helped people, Grel. Having the Jedi around is a good thing."

"Yeah, good. Good for stoppin' us from gettin' the things that're ours. With those overgrown do-gooders around, how long do you think we'd last in our trade?"

Amren leaned closer to Grel. "He's standing right there," he said.

Grel let out an exasperated sigh as he waved his hand around ineffectually while searching for words with which to respond to Amren's oh-so-astute observation. "Of course he's standing right there, you clod! I'm not blind! I can see him there!"

Ammie nodded. "Oh, it's just the way you was talking...you didn't seem to even realize he was."

"I don't talk about people behind their backs, Amm, ol' friend," Grel said. "So, if I'm gonna say something about our good friend Koran Darr, the Jedi Master, then I'm gonna say it."

"You could at least not talk about him that way right in front of him without acknowledging his existence."

Grel laughed again, wiping away imaginary tears. "Oh Ammie, ya kill me. If he doesn't like what I'm saying, let him tell me himself. I don't think he needs you stickin' up for him."

From the doorway, Koran shook his head and took a seat at one of the tables. He called up the star charts for the area and began perusing them. It was going to take some getting used to the changes of this new time. How much he had missed. And, now, thirty years later and he was supposed to re-integrate himself. What had become of his allies? What had become of his friends? Only the rigourous training of a Jedi Master kept him from being consumed by the melancholy brought on by the realization that he could be the very last of his order.

"Koran Darr!? Hey you! You sleepin' over there? Koran!"

Koran blinked and looked over at the two men who stared at him. "I apologize, gentlemen," he said. "I was just...just thinking. It's very different from when I last...lived."

"Yeah," Grel said with a shrug. "I guess things are kinda different, aren't they? Hard to get used to it all. Well, it's a good thing you're a Jedi Master then, ain't it? Ha! Ho ho! Oh boy. I'm gonna go check our course." As he passed Amren, he patted his friend's shoulder. "Just try to keep your nose out of his asshole for an hour. He's been a statue for thirty years. He needs space. Har! Ho ho!"

Koran and Amren watched after Grel, and finally Koran laughed.

"I'm really sorry about him," Amren said.

"You don't need to apologize for him, Amren," Koran said. "He is entitled to his thoughts and feelings no matter how incorrect they may be."

Amm nodded. "He's mostly a good friend."

Koran smiled. "Everyone needs friends," he said. "It's an important part of human--" He suddenly found himself unable to speak as he gazed at a section of the star charts in front of him. All thoughts fled his mind, and he could only stare dumbly.

"Koran? Hey, Koran, you alright? Um...I'm gonna go get Grel. You al-- Koran?"

"I'm fine," Koran said, his voice soft and distant as if crossing a great void to reach Amren's ears. "It's just-- This place...this system. Tae'Remok. What is there?"

Amren laughed. "One of the Empire's little pleasure planets. Place used to be a ball of sand like Tatooine, but they made it into a paradise. Well, most of it anyway. Main planet's called Chimaeria, or Tae'Karada depending on who you talk to. Grel loves it cuz most of the women walk around in these flimsy dresses that are hardly even dresses."

Koran nodded. "Yes," he said. "Is there anything else there?"

With a shrug, Amren sat down opposite the Jedi. "Not that I know of. It's...I heard it got the Empire's attention toward the end of the war, and they went in and violently deposed the king or duke or whatever their leader guy was. Some royalty type thing."

Koran looked up from the map. "We have to divert our course to there," he said. "Have Grel drop out of hyperspace and plot a new course there."

"But...okay. He won't like that, until he realizes what's there. But, I'll go tell him. I'm sure it won't take too long to get there."

"Thank you," Koran said with a smile. "I am going to return to my cabin for meditation. That's where you'll find me if you need me."

Without waiting for an answer, Koran slid out of his chair and strode toward the small cabin he occupied near the back of the ship. His heart was beating a thunderous rhythm in his chest as he neared his room. Something big awaited him on Tae'Karada. Something very big indeed.

---

"First Strike, Part 1"
By: Raxis L'Ygr - Red Dragon Society, leader
Tralesha Zibel - Red Dragons
Gort Donovan - Red Dragons
Ronan Dayre [NPC] - Red Dragons

Location: The Yallder District, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

Raindrops assaulted the cold pavement that embraced the Yallder district. The dark of night had rounded its way around the planet to attach parasitically to the district itself, as the only illumination could be found in neon street signs and dulled streetlamps. It was early morning, and the unconscious bodies of drunk spacers were draped over a multitude of steps and alleyways.

Sweeping over the streets like phantoms were two shadows, shrouded in dark cloaks. Stepping through the middle of the street they stopped, nodded to eachother, and turned in unison to lead each other down an alleyway.

There was much that could be said for the two in the cloaks as they were. The rain dripped off of their cloaks like the tears of a weeping widow in the night, and their movement was lithe and strong. In a world of beggars, thieves, and assasins, the sight of two in dark cloaks was ominous and even more so if it was at such late an hour.

The two plodded down the alley, as many eyes blinked open from beneath the blankets, boxes, and crates within the alley to watch the newcomers. These eyes, dilated and reddened from the abuse of spice, scurried further into their corners like cockroaches at the first sign of light.

All of the sudden, the two phantoms stood still, and turned to gaze upon a small family of beggars in the alleyway. Sitting on a pile of crates was a man in his middle ages, shaking in the cold with no blanket. He was a human and his bone structure met the condition of one who'd starved himself for many days, and his clothes were worn, beaten, and soaked as he tried to keep his family behind him out of their view.

Shivering, the man gasped as the two phantasmic figures turned and made their way towards him. Coming to a stop in front of him, their figures loomed down to stare at his form.

"The girl..." One of the cloaked men finally stated, barely audible over the hissing of the rainstorm.

"Wh...wha...what about the girl?" the man said with chattering teeth as he fought to rub the redness out of his eyes.

"The girl is sick," the other cloaked figure replied.

The man looked over his back to reveal his tiny daughter, who was bundled up in papers and blankets inside of a large crate, with a small green hue around her eyes.

When the man turned his gaze back to the two cloaked men, his eyes went wide to see what looked like a porcelain mask beneath the hood of the cloak mere inches from his face.

"In your blanket is a cred," Raxis hissed. "Get a room, get a doctor, and if I ever catch you in this alleyway again...I'll make sure she's sent to a top knotch orphanage that *will* take care of her," he threatened as he handed the man a blanket.

"Get out of the alley, junkie," the other, larger figure ordered.

Immediately, the man gathered up his small daughter in his arms, wrapped the blanket around them, and ran to the edge of the alley. Raxis smiled beneath the visage of his mask, assured that the man would never again let his daughter live in such conditions.

"Hey!" a loud voice called from down the alley. "Hey what are you two doin' on my turf?"

The two cloaked men turned towards the voice in unison, without reply.

A sinister Rodian, wearing a waterproof cloak to cover what appeared to be very expensive clothing was making his way down the alleyway towards them. Flanking him were two large humans in cloaks with blasters on their hips. Furious, the Rodian came to a halt before Raxis' still cloaked form.

"Are you deaf, drek head?" the Rodian spat. "I said...what are you doing on my turf?"

"Shopping..." Raxis replied from beneath the cowl of his cloak.

The Rodian dealer sneered. The business of an illicit drug dealer was a dangerous one, and it obviously wasn't the first run-in that the Rodian had with such shady characters. Taking a moment to think it over, the Rodian reluctantly answered. "Well let me first lay down some ground rules, boys. This here's *my* alley for *my* customers. Don't you even think about coming in here to sell, or I'll have you put in a bag. You got that?"

Raxis smiled from beneath his mask and nudged Gort with his boot. "All I need is ten minutes of your time, sir."

"Ten minutes for what?" the dealer replied, half annoyed.

"I'll give you ten minutes to clear out of this alley, and stop ruining these peoples' lives."

There was a long uncomfortable silence as the Rodian rubbed his chin, and that silence was finally broken with an insecure chuckle. "Say what?"

"He said..." the larger of the two, Gort, began as he pulled his cowl down to reveal a face covered with a red scarf, "that you have ten minutes to clean up your act, or face justice."

"Aaahhh..." the Rodian said, taking a step back in the rain as he moved his hands to the buckle of his blaster belt. He moved his hand to rest on his holster. "Would you look at this boys, looks like we've got ourselves a couple of superheroes..."

"Nine..." Raxis hissed.

For what seemed like an eternity, the only sound that came through that alleyway was the rain crashing against the muddy pavement, as the two groups stared each other down.

---

"First Strike, Part 2"
By: Raxis L'Ygr - Red Dragon Society, leader
Tralesha Zibel - Red Dragons
Gort Donovan - Red Dragons
Ronan Dayre [NPC] - Red Dragons

Location: The Yallder District, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

"I've got three heat signals coming in from the back alley," Tralesha's voice whispered into the radio in Raxis' ear.

Up above the alleyway, were two figures in cloaks that had not yet been noticed by the narcotics regime below. At the top of the alley, camouflaged by wet boxes and darkness was Ronan, peering into the alleyway with a blaster rifle bearing a magnification scope attacted to the top of it. His face was covered with a red scarf, and his eyes were locked into the dim violet coming from the scope. Across five rooftops, at the back of the alley, was Tralesha, in similar garb and armament.

"You know your boyfriend's a drama queen," Ronan mused over the radio to Tralesha as the two groups below stared eachother down.

"So what do you think you're going to do, minuteman?" the Rodian asked, patiently smoking a spice filled cigarra as he looked at his watch. "Eight more minutes, I'm calling your bluff. Eight minutes you plan do to what?"

Raxis and Gort stood still, staring at the Rodian with their arms hidden beneath their cloaks.

"Oh the silent treatment, eh? Well how about this..." The Rodian snapped his fingers.

Five more henchmen stepped into the alleyway from the buildings.

"I own this whole block, child," yhe Rodian taunted.

"Can I tell you a story?" Raxis muttered, barely audible above the rain.

"No...you can get the hell out of this alley right now." The Rodian glared, spitting on Raxis' cloak.

"In that case...." Raxis grinned beneath his cloak. "Seven."

Furious, the Rodian pulled his blaster out of its holster and held it at his side, pacing in front of Raxis and Gort.

"Fuck it," the Rodian said, and started to turn on the heel of his boot to raise the blaster at Raxis, when a stun bolt caught him square in the face. His body was flung ten feet across the alleyway before his fall was caught by a stack of moldy crates.

Immediately, Raxis drew his two blasters and opened stun fire to defend himself against the gang. Gort, stoically, yanked a large repeating ion rifle from behind his back and began spraying the alleyway. Moving to cover alongside Raxis, the two joked as they sent the gang scrambling.

"Just like back home, only no sand." Gort laughed, raising the sights to his eyes to pound a couple of shots into one of the thugs.

The alleyway was filled with the staccato lighting of blue and red blaster fire, and to their luck none of the vagrants had decided to run...making sure that they'd be less likely to get cut down by stray fire.

"Oh fuck. Thermal!" Ronan yelled, seeing one of the six remaining thugs pull a familiar sphere from his jacket.

"Take him!" Raxis growled over the comm, and rolled around the barrel he was using for cover to open fire on the gang with both blasters raised. Immediately, stun blaster fire began raining down upon the alleyway from both Tralesha and Ronan's positions.

Raising her sights to peer over the firefight, Tralesha fixed her weapon on the thug with the thermal detonator. Gripping her rifle tightly, she railed a hail of bolts down into the man...sending him into a stun-seizure as the detonator fell lifelessly to the ground unactivated.

Gort raced to the center of the alleyway, firing shot after shot into the barrels that their enemies were using for cover. "Come on you bastards!" he roared, as he jettisoned the power cell from the rifle. Slamming a new one in, he stood up and sprinted towards their cover. "Two minutes!"

Running past the cover fire from his allies, Gort slid across the muddy floor to a stop in front of the massive row of crates. Out of the vision of the thugs, he rose to his feet in a crouching position, and moved his back to the crates with his weapon ready to fire. "When I say go, I want you to stop firing," Raxis muttered over the comlink as he slid into position next to Gort. "We have about another minute or so till the Imperials come."

The four thugs, pinned down by the fire from above, swung their blasters to the rooftops to start a vicious firefight with the snipers. Ducking beneath crates just after firing, their bolts were either aimlessly colliding against the brick of the building or barreling out into the sky. With the noise and display, it would be no time before security forces arrived.

"NOW!" Raxis yelled, as he and Gort rocketed over the crates to land in the pit with the thugs. Expertly timed, the incoming blaster fire from Ronan and Tralesha ended as they were just entering their protected mass over crates and barrels.

Gort landed in the pit first, and he rushed forward with his blaster rifle towards two of their enemies. Cracking a grin, Gort fired a stun bolt into one of them and rammed the barrel of his gun like a spear into the gut of the other, before bringing the rifle up into a sharp uppercut swing to connect against the face of the thug. Both falling into an unconscious pile at his feet, he stopped for a moment to wipe the mud off of his hands.

"Your mother was a--" a large, trandoshan thug growled from behind as Gort turned in the nick of time to catch its massive fist mere inches from his face. They locked into each other's grasp as they tried to wrestle for control, slamming each other into nearby barrels. Like hungry wolves, they tangled and shoved each other through a line of crates, disappearing from view into the basement of one of the nearby buildings.

Falling through the destroyed wall, Gort flipped the Trandoshan off of him and pulled himself off of the floor as the Trandoshan did the same. In the dusty darkness of the tenement building, the two viciously rammed into eachother, locking arms again. In a display of strength, they had both wrapped their hands around eachothers' necks, and were trying to squeeze the life out of eachother. No match for the massive strength of a Trandoshan, Gort was forced to his knees, as the Trandoshan shoved him against the floor in a death grip.

"I know your kind," the Trandoshan hissed playfully. "Your skin peels off for good offering."

Gort's eyes narrowed into slits at the thought of being a trophy to a Trandoshan, and he grinned at the beast with an attempt to choke out his words. "Pair...of....boots."

With a grunt, Gort slammed his clenched fist into the groin of the mighty Trandoshan, and it let out a tormented howl of pain. Grinning, Gort slid to his feet and paced in front of the Trandoshan as it barreled over onto the dusty floor of the tenement. He slid his blaster out of his holster, and promptly stunned the criminal.

"Try skinning a prison barge, shit for brains," he spat, and then made his way topside.

***

"Just what exactly happened here, soldier?" an Imperial Security Officer grumbled as he fought to keep himself dry in the torrential rain.

"Spice Dealers, sir. Wanted in four systems," the stormtrooper reported, as he motioned to the line of assembled thugs being forced to stand against the wall as they were binded. "Seems somebody came in here, stunned all of them, and just left."

"Just left? No sign of them whatsoever? You mean to tell me that this all happened in what, ten minutes?"

"None sir..." the stormtrooper replied. "I can't believe it myself. We got the initial call from a comlink we found attached to the back of a barrel at the top of the alley. One of these guys was found conscious though, says it has something to do about Red Dragons."

"Red Dragons? Interesting. I'll have to check that up in the database. Either way this guy's done us a few favors. Roll these men into containment for shipment to a prison barge. What are the forensics on this?"

"Well," the trooper began, motioning around the alley as he spoke. "It started at the top of the alleyway, and the fire was centered on this location here," he noted as he pointed to the massive row of crates. "I'm showing massive amounts of stun fire coming from topside, which makes me think that this was a structured attack. Could be professional."

"Bounty? Couldn't be. This would be a wasted bounty, most contracts involve bringing the person back dead or alive."

"Personal, sir?" the trooper thought aloud.

"Doubt it, or else these men would have a clue of who would want them out. We'll have to question them, but I'm thinking that this might not be the first of these. Keep a file on this and run all mentions of Red Dragons through the database, see what you turn up with."

"Yes, sir," the trooper said as he rushed towards his speeder.

---

"Slave Capture, Part 1"
By: Daemor'rah - Jedi / Bounty Huntress

Location: Mos Eisley Spaceport, Tatooine
Date: Niothe 11, 4 ABY

***

She had gotten to one of the worst spaceports around the Outer Rim. Mos Eisley. A concentration of scum and villany, where she fit in just right. She landed her ship in one of the docking bays and headed out. The clerk, a fat pork-faced man, came towards her to collect the fees but seeing her and remembering the one time when she beat him up as he asked her to pay, he thought better not to.

She took her swoop from her ship and began racing out of town. She was going to check the former base of Jabba and scout it out for restructuring and re-use as she had been asked and paid to do so by Jadda. She got there in no time and indeed the large blastdoors were open. It was visible that whoever resided there under Jabba's protection had left and that wrecks had been made, probably by Sandpeople or Jawas on their scout runs.

She descended from her swoop and walked inside past the forced open blastdoors. She was halfway across the hallway when she heard a couple of screams. She took her blasters and moved in closer with caution. Inside the main roon were two Twi'lek girls who were cornered by three Anzati.

Daemor'rah wondered what the vampiric race was doing on Tatooine. It did not matter much that they were there at all as she knew their ways quite well. But the Twi'leks could be worth a lot of money as slaves. She shot the Anzati dead without a care for them and moved in closer to the girls.

The two young and rather beautiful Twi'leks ran to her and held her, as they saw in Daemor'rah their rescue from certain death. "We thank you!" one of them said as the other even kissed Daemor'rah's cheeks in a way that almost showed bisexuality as an offer for their saviour.

Daemor'rah Force pushed them back and stunned them. Once she had them restrained she carried them out to her swoop and rode back to the starport and back to Chimaeria.

---

"Second String, Part 1"
by Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral
Merrick Braston
and Keeve Zenarr [NPC]

Location: Yesdol District, New Plouton
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

She'd refused a hoverchair from the nurse in an attempt to retain at least some of her dignity, but making her way on foot was proving difficult. Her body still trembled from the gelid bacta she'd soaked in that morning, and there was still minor discomfort from her wound, which made her all the more glad to have Zale by her side with his arm securely around her waist, holding her close.

She pulled the blanket the hospital had provided tighter around her rickety, feeble form. Kaysa had no idea how much weight she'd lost in those three days lying prone and completely insensate in a hospital bed, but at least it made Zale's job of supporting her less burdensome. Shiv and Merrick would have wanted to drop by to see her first thing that morning, but she convinced Zale not to invite them and instead have them await her arrival the apartment. They didn't need to be in such a dejecting, glum environment; they had suffered enough sorrow as it was.

The hovercab rushed off and merged with the rest of the traffic on the street. Kaysa looked at the small flight of stairs before her, and although there were only a matter of six steps, the task looked daunting. "Hold me tight, Zale...just in case I stumble."

Zale tightened his hold on her, making certain, though, not to hold too tightly. "Don't worry, my dear," he said. "I've got you, and I'm not letting you stumble." He kissed the top of her head. "I'll hold you all the way upstairs, and into the apartment. And, then you'll be receiving so much loving, you won't know whether to laugh, cry, or go kiss Shiv."

"Well, if that's the case, then I think I like being stabbed to within an inch of my life."

The climb up the stairs was long and laborious. Kaysa's equilibrium was completely off, so everytime she lifted one foot, her body would lurch until Zale steadied her again. She was grateful they at least had a lift that could take her the rest of the way up, which it did once they finally mounted the stoop.

"That was... I can't believe I'm already tired." She rested her head against Zale's shoulder as the lift rose and felt the fatigue sending new tremors through her. "I'm not supposed to be this helpless, this weak. I can't bear it."

"Don't worry, my love," Zale said, the words seeming so natural since their departure from the hospital. "You'll gain your strength back, and until then you'll be pampered and loved like never before." He held her for a long moment, and kissed her again. "Don't worry, Kaysa. I'll keep you safe, here in my arms."

"You've gotten so sensitive and caring during my convalescence." Kaysa sighed wistfully and shook her head slowly. "I'm afraid I already have a tender, considerate lover, Zale. I think I'm just gonna have to do away with you and find some strong, tough brute to take your place. I'll start looking in the morning...or when I can get my legs working properly again."

"Don't even think about it, you heartless bitch," Zale said with a mischievous grin. "You find anyone new, and I'll just kill him."

Kaysa ran her fingers along Zale's arm and grinned with satisfaction. "That's better, my love. Precisely what I like to hear."

Zale laughed, and gave her a kiss. "Much better," he said. "I've been such a nice guy lately. Far too considerate. I think I'll have to go blow up a planet or murder some reisacat kittens."

Kaysa shrieked and slapped Zale on the arm. "Don't you dare! Can't you just conquer the planet? Think of what we could do with an entire planet..." She grinned at Zale and wrapped her arms around his waist. "I like the nice guy side of you. It's the side of Zale Tregat I fell in love with."

Zale laughed. "Well, this nice guy would love to wrap up this planet with a bow, and give it to you as a present."

Kaysa glanced up at Zale with cocked brow. "A red bow?"

"A beautiful red bow made of Bespin satin. I'd gladly give the world to you, Kaysa. All of us would. Well, except for maybe Keeve, who'd want it for himself."

"He truly is my boy after all," she mused with a proud smile.

Zale chuckled, and kissed her deeply. "Come on, my wife," he said, "let's go say hello to the rest of the family."

The lift conveniently came to a stop at that moment and the door opened for them. Kaysa placed more of her weight upon her own feet instead of forcing Zale to support her. She wanted to walk into her apartment tall and poised, not clinging desperately to Zale for fear she would collapse.

"Two days," she said quietly. "I'm giving myself two days to get better, then that's it. I'm gonna walk without a human crutch, I'm gonna go down to Zenarr Inc., and I'm gonna be the tough, staunch business woman I've strived to be and show that Dargus Kandran he failed miserably in trying to beat me down."

"That's the woman I love," Zale said. "And, I hope you don't mind, but I've lined up some of my pilots to fly for you if you want them to. Zenarr Inc. will be the top spot to have anything transported anywhere in the galaxy before you know it." He took a step away, and offered her his arm. "My dear."

Kaysa would have performed a mock curtsey, but she knew it would have ended with her toppling over. So instead, with a flourish of her hand, she slipped her arm through Zale's. "I shall allow you the honour of escorting me to my room, but don't you dare take that to mean I'm inviting you in. A lady never invites a strange man into her apartment on the first date."

Zale laughed. "Deal," he said. "Let's get moving before you realize just how strange I am." With that, they started forward with hesitant steps. As they moved, Zale couldn't help the feelings of pride in Kaysa's recovery and the love he bore for her. It was all nearly overwhelming.

"Should we sound the chime?" Kaysa asked with a grin. "Just to surprise them?"

Zale grinned and nodded. "I think we should," he said. "And, I think they'll be very surprised. I can't wait to see the look on Shiv's face when she sees you walk through the door. Ten credits says she screams. One of those giddy kind of screams she does when she gets over-excited."

"Oh...those shrill ones that make you wince?" Kaysa wrinkled her nose at Zale, then laughed. "Those are my favourite kind." She depressed the door chime on the panel as she kissed Zale softly, whispering words of affection and ardency that would have normally made her gag. But she was in love. She was allowed to be a little sentimental.

From inside, Shiv's voice called out to the others in the apartment. And, then a moment later, the door slid open. Shiv's eyes went wide, and Kaysa and Zale were rewarded with the scream they both expected. Then in a fit of giggles, the girl stepped forward, and gingerly took Kaysa into her arms. "Oh gods, Kaysa, you look great. You should have called us and we would have come down to come home with you."

"I had my big hunk of man to help me up, so I saw no point. But I'm here now, love." She rested most of her weight against Shiv's slight frame as she embraced her firmly. "And you can tell me the truth. I look like a spice addict going through withdrawal, don't I?"

"You look like you could use a good meal," Shiv said with a giggle, "but I think Zale and Merrick are gonna take care of that. And, you look beautiful. Promise."

Zale laughed. "I was trying to convince her of that all the way over here."

"And you expect a wife to believe her husband?" Kaysa snorted and batted Zale's chest playfully. "You know nothing about being married, Mr. Tregat. Give it ten years, and you'll get the hang of it."

"Fine," Zale said. "I'll do just that. Now, let's get you inside before the neighbours start expecting another striptease."

Shiv poked her head out into the hallway. "Really?"

Kaysa laughed and gently pushed Shiv inside. "I'm too decrepit to get thrown into prison by the Morality Guards. Perhaps when I'm all better."

"Well, you don't have to," Shiv said with a giggle. "But, I don't think I've given our neighbours the thrill of me undressing on the front porch in this apartment. Though, when I went to rescue you and Merrick from the Morality Guard, they saw quite a bit of me. But, that was Gladyne's dress, not necessarily me."

"And I'm certain you didn't enjoy the attention you received while wearing Gladyne's dress," Kaysa teased. Her attentiont was drawn to a sullen-looking Keeve entered the room with a stubborn pout and his arms crossed over his chest. Kaysa was getting used to that pose and was beginning to find it absolutely adorable. "Hi, Keeve. How are you today, my little darling?"

Keeve shrugged his shoulders and stopped beside Shiv. "Okay I guess. I wanted to go shopping but Auntie Shiv said we couldn't because you were coming home."

"Oh...well I'm sure she can take you..." Kaysa's voice trailed off as Keeve moved away from Shiv and into the living area, where he plunked himself down onto one of the sofas. "Well...he seems as joyous as ever."

Shiv kissed the back of Kaysa's neck and sighed. "He has taken the pout and raised it to a new art form," she said. "I'll take him later once you're settled in. I don't think he likes the competition for my attention."

"I guess that's why he despises Merrick." Kaysa looked back at Shiv and asked the inevitable question: "Where is Merrick? He's not at the White Noise is he? I wanted so badly to see him right now."

Shiv smiled. "No, he's here. He's in the bedroom with a billion scraps of paper with musical notes all over them. He's writing a song for you, and he'll be out in a minute. He said he wanted to put them all away before you went in the room and saw them thinking that a paper factory blew up in there."

Kaysa laughed and shook her head. "He's so fastidious," she commented. "I mean, holding up my homecoming to clean up... Braston! Get your ass out here now!"

Shiv's eyes went wide as she quickly clamped a hand over her mouth and looked straight at Keeve, whose ears definitely perked themselves right up at Kaysa's profanity.

Kaysa frowned quizzically at Shiv, until her eyes met that which Shiv's attention was focused upon. Kaysa grimaced and sighed sharply as she mentally berated herself. "Gotta remember...there's a kid in the house now. Um... Hey, Braston! Uh...get that cute...behind out here now!"

The door to the bedroom suddenly opened and Merrick stepped out with a smile on his face. "Did I hear someone out here say ass, I mean...behind?" He laughed and moved forward quickly. "You look radiant, my love. And, it's so nice to have you home again."

"I do not look radiant," Kaysa said as she moved into Merrick's arms. "But I am glad to be home." She stroked his hair tenderly and gazed up into his gleaming slate eyes. "My Merrick... I always do miss those eyes."

"These eyes missed you," Merrick said with a gentle laugh, and then kissed Kaysa. "I would have been out here when you got here, but...I was finishing up a song I wrote for you."

"Are all your songs about me?" Kaysa asked. "I think your fans are going to start complaining."

Merrick laughed softly. "Well, I've written a few about Shiv, and I wrote one about Zale last night."

Zale raised an eyebrow. "About me?"

Merrick grinned and nodded. "You'll have to come to my show to hear it though."

Kaysa narrowed her eyes suspiciously at Merrick, then looked at Zale before glancing back at Merrick again. "I knew there was something going on between the two of you. You boys just couldn't keep your hands off each other, could you?"

Zale laughed and gave Kaysa a kiss. "I'm not saying anything," he said. "A guy's got to have some secrets you know."

Merrick stifled a laugh and nodded. "Exactly," he said. "Now, why don't you come inside, and sit down on this nice couch over here...with your son."

Kaysa smiled tightly and moved towards the living area with Merrick supporting her. He helped her down onto the couch already occupied by Keeve, who made a point of shifting away to the other end. Kaysa noticed, of course, but attempted to appear unaffected by it, although inside, it was absolutely breaking her heart.

"Uh...Shiv, why don't you come and sit with us?" Kaysa asked with a pleading look.

Shiv moved over and sat next to Kaysa, casting a glare at Keeve as she did so. She slipped her arms around Kaysa, and devoted her full attention to her love, completely ignoring the rude little boy behind her.

Kaysa rubbed Shiv's back soothingly and kissed the top of her head. "Don't be hard on him," she whispered. "He'll come around. Be a friend to him and be patient."

"I am his friend," Shiv whispered back. "But, he won't be anyone else's friend. He knows when I'm not happy with how he's behaving, and maybe he'll come around and be nice to you. I want him to be nice to you, and I'm just offering him an incentive."

"You are as cunning as I am, Shiv." Kaysa laughed and kissed Shiv upon the cheek. "I am so proud!"

"I learn from the best," Shiv said with a giggle. "And, I told you when I got here that I wanted to be just like you. You are the best, Kaysa, and that's one of the reasons I love you so much."

Keeve had had enough of Kaysa keeping Shiv all to herself. He squirmed over to Shiv on the sofa and tapped her upon the shoulder repeatedly. "Auntie? Auntie Shiv?"

Shiv glanced back at Keeve with a gentle smile. "Yes, sweetie," she asked as she slipped one arm around him.

"Well...can we have another bath? I wanted to show you something."

"Maybe later, sweetie," Shiv said. "Your mommy just got home, so we're spending time with her. It'd make me very happy if you'd try to be her friend too."

"But...I can be her friend after our bath," Keeve replied. "Don't you need a bath, Auntie Shiv?"

"Later, Keeve," Shiv said. "And, I don't need a bath, because I took a shower this morning. Now, come say hello to your mommy and be a good boy."

Keeve's eyes shifted slowly and menacingly to Kaysa while his lips seemed to curl down sharply into a sneer. "I said hello already, Auntie."

"Shiv, it's okay," Kaysa said gently before the situation became more tense.

"No, it's not okay," Shiv whispered to her. "He's your son, and...it's not okay, Kaysa. I want to stay out here with you, and Keeve can take his bath before he goes to bed tonight."

Kaysa sighed and nodded her head slowly. She didn't want to appear the villain in Keeve's eyes, but she knew it was already too late. His seething glare was indication enough of that.

"Well...can I have a frazzie then?" Keeve asked. "I can go get one myself. I'll ride on my new hoverboard."

Shiv sighed. "We can go in a little bit," she said. "Okay, sweetie? I promise we can go in a little bit. But, you have to be a good boy, for me and your mommy." She gave him a kiss on top of his head. "Why don't you tell Kaysa about our trip to the beach yesterday?"

Keeve shrugged and plopped himself down before Kaysa's feet. "Auntie Shiv took me to the beach," he said with little expression and no enthusiasm whatsoever. "She took her top off like all the other girls did and these two guys came and I scared them away. Then we had frazzies. That's all really."

Kaysa's eyes shifted slowly to Shiv. "Topless, Shiv? You were topless? I think...I think I'd like you to explain why you were topless in front of my son and why he was allowed to see other topless women." Kaysa smiled tightly and nodded her head. "Yes...I think I'd definitely like an explanation for that immediately."

Shiv sighed. "Kaysa, we live on Tae'Karada." One look at Kaysa told her that the magnitude of that statement had been completely lost on the woman. "You go down to the park just three blocks from our apartment, there are women wearing equadis. There's also that lawn on the far side of the park, just past the fountain with all the women laying out in the sun. Unless you blindfold him, move him off the planet, or never let him out of this apartment, he's going to see nearly naked women all over the place."

"He doesn't need that from you too, Shiv. He doesn't need to see his...Auntie romping around naked in front of him." Kaysa sighed sharply. "I thought you were more responsible than that, Shiv."

Shiv sighed. "Fine," she said, and then got up from the couch and started toward her studio.

Keeve followed immediately and ran to catch up with Shiv. He slipped his hand into hers and looked up at her with a smile.

Kaysa, on the other hand, frowned as she threw off the blanket she'd been wrapped in and rose from the sofa stiffly. She wobbled at first, but regained her balance and paced the room unsteadily. Her first day back and already there was strife within the Zenarr residence. At least Zale and Merrick were getting along, judging by the laughter coming from the kitchen.

Once Shiv reached the hall, away from Kaysa's eyes, she looked down at Keeve. "Why are you following me, Keeve?" Tears shone in her eyes, but she quickly wiped them away. "If you want that bath now, I guess you can take your bath."

"Auntie Shiv...are you sad?" Keeve wrapped his arms around Shiv's waist and kissed her stomach. "Why are you so sad?"

Shiv smiled a sad smile. "Because I love Kaysa more than anything. And, you won't be her friend. And, because she's upset at me for..for being me."

"She's just a meanie, Auntie Shiv. Now why would I want to be a friend with someone who makes you cry?"

"Because I love her very much, sweetie," Shiv said. "That's why I'm crying. I love her very, very much. And, I want you to be her friend, so we can all be happy. If I didn't love her, I wouldn't care what she said. But, I do care, so...so that's why I get sad."

"She shouldn't say things to make you sad," Keeve said with discontent. "No one makes Auntie Shiv sad." Keeve pulled his hand from Shiv's and with a fierce, angry scowl he marched back into the living area.

Kaysa was standing by the window, staring off into the distance and didn't notice Keeve come up behind her. When he grabbed her hand, she gasped. He jerked on her arm and Kaysa lurched, almost losing her footing.

"Keeve! What are you doing?" Kaysa tried to pull her hand away, but Keeve's hold tightened.

"You made Auntie Shiv sad," he said in a cold whisper.

"What?" Kaysa staggered forward as Keeve tugged on her arm again. The room began to spin and her body swayed, threatening to fall over. "Let go, Keeve. Please...let go."

"No!" Keeve pulled again with more strength than Kaysa thought capable of a child, and this time, she lost her footing and fell prostrate onto the ground with a cry. "Apologize to her!" He grabbed a handful of Kaysa's hair and jerked her head up. "Apologize!"

"Keeve!" Shiv shouted from the other side of the room. Her face was a mask of rage as she glared at the boy. "Get away from her right now! Go to your room! I don't want to see you until dinner's ready!" With that, she rushed to where Kaysa lay on the ground. She dropped to her knees next to Kaysa as tears streamed down her cheeks. "Oh gods, Kaysa. Please tell me you're alright. Please be alright, Kaysa."

"I'm fine," Kaysa said weakly. She sat up and propped her back against the coffee table. Keeve was still looming over her, glaring and breathing heavily. "Keeve..."

"Auntie Shiv, I don't want to go to my room. I have to protect you."

Shiv turned an angry glare on the boy. "That is not the way to protect me," she snapped. "That was very mean, and wrong. You are a very bad boy." She wiped away the tears from her cheeks. "We're not going shopping today, Keeve. And, you're not getting any frazzies for the rest of the week."

"What's going on," Zale's voice said from the kitchen door. His face showed concern, but his eyes blazed with anger.

"Domestic dispute," Shiv said, not taking her gaze from Keeve. "Go," she mouthed to the boy.

"Fine!" he hollered back at her. He turned his darkened gaze to Kaysa, and in his eyes, she only saw resentment and hatred. Before she could say anything more to him, he stormed out of the living area and after a few moments, his bedroom door was slammed closed behind him.

Kaysa shook her head slowly and tried to push herself to her feet. "I'm beginning to think I should have stayed in a coma."

"When I get through with that little brat," Shiv growled, "he's gonna wish he was in a coma."

"Want me to go in and have a talk with him?" Zale asked as he came forward wiping his hands off on a towel. "You two can go in and make sure that Merrick doesn't blow anything up while I'm gone."

"Just leave it," Kaysa said as she rested upon the table. "He'll hate me more if everyone's yelling at him and punishing him because of me. I'm fine. Forget it."

"He's going to learn he can't treat you that way," Shiv said. "At least, not if he still wants to be my friend."

"You can't threaten him into doing something he doesn't want to do, Shiv!" Kaysa rose from the table quickly, far too quickly, which caused her to swagger before she regained her balance. "Everything you're trying to do has only made him resent me more. Just...stop it."

"It looks like I'm the problem then," Shiv said as she stood up and looked between Kaysa and Zale. "Fine." With that, she rushed toward the door.

"Shiv! What are you doing?" Kaysa tried to hurry after Shiv, but her movements were slow and uncoordinated. She needed to keep her hands on the side of the couch, then the wall to support her as she walked. "You're not the problem, Shiv! My forcing Keeve to come here was the problem. I'll...I'll send him back, Shiv!" Kaysa's throat constricted and she clenched her eyes closed against the despair. "If you stay, I'll just send him back."

Shiv quickly spun around and raced back to Kaysa. "Oh gods, no, Kayse," she said. "He's really a sweet boy when he behaves. I just need to get him to realize that he'll make me happier if he's your friend and likes you. I know I can't force him, but maybe if he has a chance to spend time with you, to get to know you. He just needs time." She pushed herself into Kaysa's arms, and held her love tight. "We'll make this work, I promise. Maybe we can go talk to him together. And, maybe after Zale and Merrick finish their...masterpiece, maybe me, you, and Keeve can go down to the park together. And, we can all get frazzies."

"So he can attempt to murder me again?" Kaysa sighed and rubbed Shiv's back affectionately. "Let's not push it too soon. He's volatile right now. We...we can try again another day. We'll give him time to come around...if that ever happens. It's hard to go from hating a person to loving them."

Shiv smiled and kissed Kaysa. "Can I sleep with you tonight, Kaysa? I need to be near you tonight."

Kaysa grinned at Shiv and nodded her head. "Tonight and every night...except when Zale needs some loving from his wife."

Shiv giggled. "Maybe he won't mind company from the trollop that sleeps in your other bed."

Kaysa laughed and looked back at Zale. "So, what do you say, Zale? You in the mood for some trollop?"

Zale laughed softly and stepped forward. "I'm always in the mood for trollop," he said.

"Then it's settled," Shiv said with another giggle. "I think we should all get a place together. I think that would be perfect."

"Are you sure, Shiv?" Kaysa asked. "I mean...we still don't have Merrick's input. What if he's not alright with it?"

"We can talk to him," Shiv said, "but I think he'll agree. As long as he gets some studio space, I think he'll be happy with the arrangement. Maybe we should talk to him...just to be on the safe side."

"Or Zale could pound him into submission," Kaysa suggested playfully. "You'd do that for your wife, wouldn't you, Mr. Tregat?"

Zale grinned. "I'd love to pound Merrick," he said.

Shiv covered her mouth and giggled furiously.

Kaysa frowned and playfully swatted Zale's arm. "Not that kind of pounding, you fiend. I don't think I feel comfortable leaving you two alone in the same room anymore."

Zale laughed and pulled both Kaysa and Shiv into an embrace. "Then we should talk to him about it and see what he says. I think it'll all be fine, but we should make sure we'll all be okay with the arrangement."

"Um...should we..." Kaysa chewed her lip, then leaned forward and whispered into Zale's ear. "Should we tell him about the baby thing?"

Zale thought about it for a moment, and then nodded. "I think we should," he said. "We don't want to keep anything from him."

"When did you get so honest, Mr. Tregat?" Kaysa teased.

"I didn't," Zale said. "It's just that if we're all going to be living together, then there are certain things that we really shouldn't keep from each other. And, I think that's definitely one of them."

Kaysa sighed and nodded her head grudgingly. "Fine...but make sure you don't tell him when his mouth is full...unless you plan on having the man choke and die so you can have his two concubines all to yourself."

"I'll take him to my office and strap him in a chair before I tell him," Zale said. "Maybe hang him out the window if he gets unruly."

"Just leave that pretty face of his unmarred. And none of that cutting out his voicebox either," Kaysa said. "The man's gotta make a living."

Shiv giggled. "And his hands. You have to leave his hands alone. And, his chest. Um...I don't think there's gonna be much left for you to do anything naughty to."

"Well, I have been thinking for a while that he could do with a haircut..." Kaysa grinned and slipped her hands into both Shiv's and Zale's. "Let's go get the table set. I think we have a lot to talk about."

"And, we should probably check on poor Merrick all alone in there," Shiv said. "I hope he's wearing an apron. I always thought he'd be very sexy in an apron. Of course, I wasn't imagining him wearing anything under the apron, but I'm sure he's still sexy with the apron over his clothes."

"Shiv...sometimes I wonder what goes on in that beautiful head of yours." Kaysa laughed softly as she kissed her upon the cheek. "Maybe we can convince both Zale and Merrick to walk around with just aprons on."

"Oh, there's some really wild things in there," Shiv said with a giggle. "But, I probably shouldn't tell you about the one with me, you, and a vat of carbosyrup." She giggled even harder at the look Kaysa gave her. "For the time being though, we'll have to convince Merrick and Zale to purchase some designer aprons, and model them for us. I imagine there are some manufacturers of some very fancy aprons on this planet."

"So, Zale, you sure you still wanna move in?" Kaysa asked. "She's always like this, you know, and it's worse after sex when she's all excited and dreamy."

Zale laughed. "Well, it's either like this when I move in, or when I stay over or you stay at my place with her along. I don't think she even needs any spice. I can't imagine it doing anything to her that's more wild than she is normally."

"And I can only imagine how it's affecting my son..." Kaysa gave an exaggerated sigh as they stepped into the kitchen. "Any fires yet?" she called out to Merrick.

"Nothing I couldn't handle," Merrick called out. His hands were full with a large pan he was trying to get into the oven. After adjusting it slightly, it slid easily in. "There. It's alright though. The neighbours won't notice a thing." He grinned, and started to go to hug Kaysa, but opted instead to wipe the glop off his hands.

"The neighbours never do notice our cries of pleasure, so what's a little smoke and flames?" Kaysa moved to the range and opened the lid of one of the pots. The aromas rising from the red sauce within smelled surprisingly good, and she only hoped it tasted just as good. She would hate to have to lie to Merrick.

Merrick laughed. "It's probably best that they don't notice anything going on over here. We're not exactly the best neighbours around, you know. That little old lady down the hall glared at me the other day because we didn't attend the potluck last week."

"I think she'll be more forgiving after she tastes your cooking." Kaysa smiled sweetly at Merrick then slipped her arms around him. "You and Zale...so romantic, offering to cook for us and all. I think you both deserve a special treat for this."

"Really?" Merrick asked with a smile. "I like treats. Are you sure you're strong enough for a treat though?"

Kaysa laughed softly and shook her head. "Not for both of you. I guess you boys will have to fight for the privilege of having me. Just...don't pull the hair. Zale hates that."

"Yeah, but he's not above pulling hair himself. I think he pulled out a clump in the back last time." Merrick turned around. "Has it grown back yet? Can you see it?"

Kaysa pushed him playfully away. "Oh, stop being so vain, Merrick! You know Shiv and I love you no matter how scruffy and unkempt you look."

"You'll even love me after I'm bald because that wicked husband of yours has pulled all my hair out?"

"Of course, silly Merrick," Shiv said. "Though, we might have to ask you to wear a wig when we're out in public."

"Or we could just tie him to the bed and make him our love slave so no one will ever have to see him." Kaysa kissed Merrick lovingly, then patted him on the rear. "Now, get cooking. Zale and I have a few things to discuss with you, then the hair pulling can begin."

"Well, you talk and I'll stir this..." He peered into the pot and frowned. "This stuff. What are we calling this again, Zale?"

"Soup," Zale said with a laugh. "We call it soup."

"You talk and I'll stir this soup." He looked down inside and frowned again. "Are you sure it's soup? It doesn't look like soup."

"It's...more like a stew. But trust me, it's good."

"You pulled my hair," Merrick said. "Why should I trust you?"

Zale laughed. "Because I'm letting you have sex with my wife."

Merrick grinned. "Good reason."

Kaysa raised her eyebrow at Shiv. "I think we should leave these two alone." She smiled and slipped her arm through Shiv's. "Let's go get the table set."

"Gladly," Shiv said. "Can I sit next to you tonight? Merrick and Zale are no fun to play footsie with, especially with their big clumsy feet."

"You've become so affectionate lately, my love." Kaysa placed her arm around Shiv's waist and pulled her closer. "Is it because... I'm sorry you had to be there, Shiv. I'm sorry you had to be the one to find me. I don't remember much...but Zale told me you were there. I'm sorry you had to go through that."

"It's because I love you so much...and I almost lost you...and I couldn't bear to lose you," Shiv said as she turned her gaze to meet Kaysa's. "I don't ever want you to forget how much I love you. And...I guess because of that, I just want to be very close...and affectionate. I hope you don't mind." She grinned.

"Have I ever minded?" Kaysa kissed Shiv's cheek, then nuzzled her lips against her neck. "And I especially love it when you're affectionate in bed. You're so very good at it too."

"I will be gentle and affectionate tonight," Shiv said with a smile as she turned her lips upon Kaysa. "Nothing too strenuous yet, but just enough to make you feel very loved."

"I already do...and spoiled." She stroked Shiv's cheek and added, "But I'm sure I'll enjoy the loving much more."

"I plan on making sure you do," Shiv said with a giggle. "Now, we better get the table set before Zale and Merrick finish with dinner."

---

"Second String, Part 2"
by Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral
Merrick Braston
and Keeve Zenarr [NPC]

Location: Yesdol District, New Plouton
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

The clattering of pots and pans sounded from the kitchen, then Zale's laughter and a rather vulgar curse from Merrick. Kaysa grinned at Shiv as they began retrieving the table settings. "I think we can take our time. It sounds like the meal's gonna be a long time coming."

"I just hope they don't end up all covered in dinner," Shiv said. "That wouldn't be good at all. We'd have to go out. Maybe all of us could go to the Tower."

"If we're allowed back in there." Kaysa set the placemats atop the table and began laying them out. "Do you think they managed to get all those stains out of the elevators? And what about those dents?"

"I think they'd have to replace the cars," Shiv said. "I think I left a pair of panties in there. I wonder if they kept them as a souvenir or anything."

"Or maybe they sent them off to the Morality Guard to have them analyzed." Kaysa laughed. "I imagine they've almost got an ID on you. They should be showing up at our doorstep any minute now."

"Really," Shiv said with a wide grin. "I should go put on something much more appropriate for them then. Something truly scandalous. Maybe that little, itsy bitsy dress I wore to spring you and Merrick from them. And, since they already have my panties, I won't need any this time. I wonder if they'd all want to go dancing." She looked at Kaysa and giggled. "But, if they take me away, I'll miss Merrick's wonderful cooking."

"If it can at all be called 'wonderful'." Kaysa sighed wearily as even the small task of laying out placemats fatigued her. She pulled out one of the chairs and sank into it gratefully. "They better hurry with the meal or I'm going to have to go off for a nap before I've had a chance to sample the delights."

"If you'd like," Shiv said with a mischievous grin, "I can help you with that nap. Just so you're not lonely in there."

"I doubt I'd get much rest with you in there, Shiv."

"Auntie?" The tiny voice seemed so distant, even though the young boy was standing but a foot from the table. Kaysa shifted around to face him, and found in his eyes only a trace of the anger and resentment she'd seen in them earlier. That alone gave her a small spark of hope.

Shiv turned around and gave Keeve a small smile. "Yes, sweetie," she said as she crouched down in front of him.

Keeve looked down at his foot kicking lightly at the carpet. "Uh...can I have a hug? I don't like you being mad at me."

"Of course, sweetie," Shiv said with a smile. She pulled him gently into her arms and gave him a kiss on his cheek. "You can always have hugs."

Keeve rested his head upon Shiv's shoulder and lightly kissed her neck. "Thank you, Auntie. Now I feel all better."

"Will you be Kaysa's friend now, sweetie?" she asked. "She's a really good friend. I promise."

"Only if she doesn't make you sad anymore."

"Keeve," Kaysa called out gently, "I promise I'll never make her sad. You don't have to worry."

Shiv smiled at Keeve. "Everyone gets sad sometimes," she said. "But, Kaysa always makes me very happy. If she ever makes me sad, it's nothing compared to how happy she makes me." She kissed the top of his head again. She then took Keeve's and Kaysa's hands and brought them together. "Friends," she whispered.

Keeve looked warily at his small hand wrapped in Kaysa's, then nodded his head and sighed. "Friends...as long as I get my frazzie, Auntie."

Shiv smiled. "As long as you're a good boy, you can have a frazzie," she said. "And, if you want me to be always happy, then you'll be Kaysa's friend."

"I promise to try my hardest, Auntie. Anything for you, Auntie Shiv."

Kaysa shifted her eyes to Shiv and smiled. "I think that sounded sincere enough. You can give him his frazzie after lunch, Shiv."

Shiv took both Kaysa's and then Keeve's hands, and placed kisses in the palms of each. She smiled at them both. "All three of us can go down for a frazzie after lunch," she said. "Okay?"

Keeve smiled at Shiv and nodded his head. Kaysa mouthed a thank you to Shiv and kissed her hand in return. "Would you like to help Auntie Shiv set the table, Keeve?"

"Okay! You can have a seat, Auntie and I'll take care of everything." Keeve scurried to a chair and slid it out for Shiv. "Have a seat."

Shiv grinned at Kaysa and sat down in the chair Keeve offered her. "My what a little gentleman," she said.

"I have to start practicing if I'm going to marry you one day, Auntie."

Kaysa held Shiv's gaze with curiousity and mild amusement. "Marry? Have you discussed it with Merrick, Shiv?"

"We talked about it a little last night," Shiv said with a grin. "I told him he's gonna have to really start working to impress me if he wants to compete with Keeve. Your son bought me flowers yesterday."

Kaysa laughed and ruffled Keeve's hair. "That was so kind of you, Keeve. I have no doubt when it comes time to propose, Shiv will accept without hesitation."

Keeve patted down his hair and gave Kaysa a toothy grin, made less toothy by the one missing in front. "When I'm old enough, I'm gonna do just that. Maybe even on my next birthday."

Shiv giggled and glanced at Kaysa. "I think we'll have to start planning now," she said. "Though, I don't want a Tae'Karada wedding. I want a New Republic wedding, with the new one that's starting now that the Empire is gone. And, we're gonna have reisacats too."

"Two of them," Keeve added. He began laying down utensils upon the table, carelessly and disorderly. Some got two forks and no knife, while other placings got only a spoon with which to eat. "So...I think if we're getting married soon, we have to start practicing, which means you'll have to bathe with me and sleep in my bed with me tonight, Auntie."

"Oh she will, will she?" Kaysa raised an eyebrow at Shiv and smiled. "Bathe with him?"

"We still have lots of time to practice, Keeve," Shiv said. "I have to stay with Kaysa tonight. But, I'll tell you a story before bed, and then sing you to sleep. How's that sound?" She glanced at Kaysa and giggled. "I sing him Merrick's songs."

"And do you sing to him while you're naked in the tub with him?" Kaysa asked sardonically.

"Silly Kaysa," Shiv said with another giggle. "I don't sing songs to him in the tub."

Kaysa tried to stifle her laugh, but failed miserably. "Shiv...I'm supposed to be getting mad at you here! Stop making me laugh!"

Shiv grinned, and leaned close to Kaysa. "I did," she whispered, "but I won't anymore. I didn't know I shouldn't. But, I won't. Please don't be mad at me, Kaysa. I was just...just trying to be his friend, and...well...I didn't know..."

Kaysa sighed and nodded her head. "I know, Shiv. It's...it's okay. Just try and show better judgement from now on. I don't want my kid to become a pervert...although I do think it runs in the family."

"And, I love it," Shiv said with a giggle. "Well, in you. He's too young to be a pervert yet. And, no more. I mean, it all just feels so natural for me...but...I'll be better from now on."

"Okay," Kaysa conceded finally. "I know you wouldn't intentionally do anything to harm him in any way, Shiv. We're both new at this parenting thing; I figure we're allowed to make a few mistakes."

Shiv smiled and wrapped her arms around Kaysa. "Of course I wouldn't," she said. "He's the best little guy ever. And, I figure with as many mistakes as my parents made, I've still got a few million to go before I catch up."

"Well...hopefully you won't need that many before you get the hang of it," Kaysa said almost worriedly.

"All done!" Keeve slammed down the last plate and hopped between Shiv and Kaysa's chairs.

"Oh...my. You did a good job, Keeve," Kaysa said with a smile.

"Yeah...well I wanted to impress Auntie Shiv. Are you impressed, Auntie?"

"I'm very impressed," Shiv said with a giggle, then quickly leaned over to Kaysa. "I'm trying to make no more mistakes." She turned back to Keeve and pulled him up into her lap. "You're an expert table setter, you know? I bet you got to set the table all the time when you were on Bespin."

"Nope," Keeve said as he bounced happily in Shiv's lap. "The maid did that. I used to love messing up the table after she set it. I'd throw all the plates on the floor, then stomp on them!" Keeve giggled boisterously. "She used to chase me with a broom! But I was too fast."

Shiv's eyes widened in surprise at Keeve's admission. "Really? What did...what did your mommy and daddy say when you did that?"

"Nothing," Keeve said with a shrug. "I blamed it on the evil woman so they fired her and gave me a treat."

Shiv nodded and glanced at Kaysa. "So, later, Keeve, do you want to show Kaysa that trick you learned on your hoverboard?"

Keeve nodded his head vigorously and began playing with Shiv's hair. "I think I'm going to try learning another one too, but I'll keep it as a surprise for you, Auntie Shiv."

Shiv giggled. "Oooh," she cooed, "a surprise. Well, maybe you can show it to both me and Kaysa when you learn it, okay? I think that would be lots of fun."

"Sure." Keeve laid his head upon Shiv's bosom and began lightly tracing small circles around her nipple.

Kaysa's eyes widened considerably and her smile became all at once nervous and worried. "Shiv..." she warned gently.

Shiv pulled her chest away from Keeve. "Keeve, sweetie," she said. "You shouldn't do that. Not until after we're married."

Keeve screwed his mouth into knot and crossed his arms over his chest. "Fine. I was only curious... You're my girlfriend. I should be allowed to touch you how I want."

Shiv smiled at him. "You can touch me in some ways, but others have to wait until after we're married. Or until you're at least eighteen. Those are the rules."

"Well...as long as I can touch you in some ways." Keeve smiled happily again and switched to twirling Shiv's blonde hair between his fingers.

"So..." Kaysa said after clearing her throat, "am I invited to the wedding?"

"Of course you are," Shiv said. "Everyone's invited. Why wouldn't you be invited? I'll need someone to be my maid of honour, won't I?"

"Oh, of course. I'm sure Merrick would be glad to volunteer for that role," Kaysa said playfully.

"No, you, silly Kaysa," Shiv said with a giggle. "Merrick can..." She glanced at Keeve and then thought better of what she was going to say. "Merrick...we'll find something for Merrick to do."

"And since Zale is your father now, Keeve, he'll have to give you away. If I were you," Kaysa whispered, "I wouldn't fight him on it. He can be...very persuasive when he wants something."

Keeve frowned at Kaysa and snuggled against Shiv. "Well...it's our wedding so we decide who we want there. If Zaletregat wants to be invited, he'd better be nicer to me."

Kaysa laughed. "I'd like to see you make him."

Shiv was completely unable to force the image of Keeve, dressed in a tuxedo, bent over Zale's knee with Zale swatting his behind out of her mind. She giggled, and gave Keeve a kiss on top of his head, then on his forehead. "If Zale wants to be in the wedding, I think we'll have to let him. Especially since he'll probably be paying for most of it."

"Well, Merrick's pretty wealthy as well. If you're nice to him, Keeve, I'm sure he'd pay for the entire thing," Kaysa said with a grin.

"No...I don't think Moronic Merrick will be invited," Keeve said with an airy sigh. "He's not nice to me."

"He's not nice to you, or you're not nice to him?" Kaysa asked.

Keeve shrugged his shoulders and ignored Kaysa. All he wanted was to be alone with his Auntie Shiv, having a bath with her. But he couldn't now, not with Kaysa meddling into their private affairs.

Shiv rolled her eyes and turned her attention away from Keeve. "If you want, when you go back into the office, I can help you out some," she said to Kaysa. "I know it may take some getting used to being back, and if you need any help." She grinned. "But, only office stuff."

Kaysa reached across the table and placed her hand atop Shiv's. "There's no way I'm sending you on a run, my love. I want you here with me, where I can keep an eye on you and make sure you're safe."

Keeve looked down at Kaysa's hand touching his girlfriend's and scowled, but when he looked up at Shiv, there was only a smile upon his face. "I'll make sure you're safe too, Auntie. I protected you from the bad man, didn't I?"

"What bad man?" Kaysa asked. "The bogeyman?" she said with a laugh.

"No," Keeve said irritably, "the man who tried to hurt her and have sex with her when she didn't want him to."

Kaysa's face sank as the blood drained from it. "Shiv? What...what is he talking about? What man?"

Shiv quickly looked away and sighed heavily. "Dargus sent a man...the other night," she said. "It was a warning...about the spaceport. And, after...he...oh gods..." She swallowed hard and fought back a sob. "Keeve saved me. He ran his hoverboard into the man...and we got away. It...he was one of the men from...from when I was with...with Dargus."

Kaysa's hand involuntarily clenched Shiv's and her body trembled with suppressed rage. She jerked her hand suddenly away from Shiv's and said in a cold whisper, "Cover Keeve's ears, Shiv, will you?"

Shiv clenched and unclenched her jaw, and then quickly covered Keeve's ears as Kaysa directed. "I'm sorry, Kaysa," Shiv sobbed. "I didn't mean to. He was just...oh gods...it was like...oh gods, Kaysa...please don't be mad at me..."

"Zale!" Kaysa kept her eyes on Shiv's as she pushed back her chair aggressively and rose. "Zale! Get out here now!"

A moment later, Zale appeared in the doorway. Sensing the tension and anger in Kaysa's voice, he decided to drop his joking manner. Looking at the sight of Shiv, and then Kaysa, he could easily guess what happened. He steeled himself and nodded. "What is it?"

Kaysa drew her eyes away from Shiv and let her seething gaze focus on Zale. She stalked towards him with her hands balled into fists by her sides and hollered back to Shiv. "On second thought, cover his eyes." Once she was near enough, Kaysa steadied herself, then cocked back her arm and swung it towards Zale's face.

Zale's reaction was instantaneous. His hand flashed out and closed around Kaysa's fist, stopping it before it could impact. "I take it you found out about the attack from the other night," Zale said. "I'd think your anger would be better directed at Dargus Kandran, and not me."

Kaysa grunted and struggled to free her hand from Zale's grip. "You were supposed to protect her, dammit!" Kaysa swung her other arm towards Zale, but it got no farther than the first one and she was denied the blow she desperately wanted to inflict upon Zale. "You said you wouldn't let anything happen to her. You let someone near her, Zale! You let someone near my son!"

"Antorial's been compromised," Zale shouted back. "Somehow that fucking bastard got into my organization!" He pushed himself away from Kaysa, releasing her hands as he did. "I put a regular duty shift onto this place, and it was compromised. He's got a slicer working for him, and they forged documents that got their man inside." He turned back to face Kaysa. "Moril and Tel signed in on their own time, and they've hand picked twenty men who they're certain are loyal and can't be bought. This place is under twenty-four hour surveillance, and no one gets close without them knowing about it."

"Well, someone did," Kaysa hissed. "You let someone corner Shiv on a dark street and practically fucking rape her! Instead of sitting by my bedside, pining for me, you should've been making damn sure she was safe! You promised, you bastard. You promised me!"

Zale held up his hand and forearm before Kaysa. "They wouldn't let me out of the fucking hospital," he snarled, "because that bastard cut my arm off. I had to take it on faith that my people were doing their jobs and that no one had slipped in while I was incapacitated. But, if you're dissatisfied with the security I've arranged, then perhaps you'd like to take care of that yourself."

"I shouldn't have to," she rasped. "Dammit, he could've taken her again, Zale. Dargus could have taken Shiv and this time, we would have never gotten her back! And don't you dare use your arm as an excuse. If you hadn't been stupid enough to go against Dargus face-to-face, it never would have happened!"

"You were the one that double-crossed him in the first place," Zale snapped. "If you really want to play the blame game, we can. You're the one he's pissed off at and trying to get at." He growled and turned away, fighting down the rage boiling inside himself. "I'm going."

"No," Kaysa said with a jeering laugh, "you're not. You're not going anywhere!" She marched over to Zale and gripped him by the arm to pull him back. "You will stay here and tell Shiv why she had to suffer again after you promised to protect her...after you promised to protect all of us! Hell, Zale, you even let Kandran get close to her again at the party!"

Zale shook his arm free of Kaysa's grip. "Shiv and I have already gone over this," Zale snapped. "I'm not going over it again. I'm going to go make sure that you people are protected from that bastard."

"No!" Kaysa shouted. "You're not leaving. You're not leaving because...I'm not done being angry with you! If you leave now, then I'll have to be angry with myself for not being there for Shiv. You have to stay so I can take it out on you, Zale!"

Zale turned back. "There's no possible way you could be as angry with yourself as I've been with myself. I let all of you down, and I've been beating myself up over it since it happened. There is nothing you could say that would come close to what I've already told myself."

"But..." Kaysa looked down, then gazed up at Zale and pressed her hand to his cheek. "It was my fault, Zale, like you said. I pushed Dargus too far, I cheated him out of the spaceport. You, and Shiv... You got hurt because I was too proud to let Dargus win. You've been doing all you can, even though you shouldn't have to clean up the mess I made, Zale. It's not your fault."

"I still should have made sure we were protected from him," Zale said. "And, I think any of us here would say that putting that bastard in his place is better than giving in to him." Zale wrapped his arms around Kaysa and held her tightly to himself. "I think we're making up now."

"No," Kaysa whispered, "we'll do that when I've got my strength back. But this is good too."

"It is," Zale said, and then kissed her. "I'm just glad you didn't have one of those laser swords. That could have gotten really messy."

"With how badly my head is spinning right now, I doubt I could have hit you anyway." Kaysa nestled her head against Zale's chest and gripped the back of his shirt. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry I blamed you. You've been doing all you can for us and I love you for it."

"It wasn't enough," Zale said. "But it will be from now on. Let's go sit down together. I think Keeve's about to rip Shiv's arms off, and Merrick's about to burn the food."

"Food!" Merrick quickly turned and raced back into the kitchen.

Kaysa laughed softly and kissed Zale deeply, hoping Keeve's eyes were still covered. "Don't even think about walking out on me again," she berated him gently. "That was one of the scariest moments of my life."

"I thought it would have been the fact that Merrick's practically made that whole meal himself," he said with a laugh. He kissed her again and sighed. "Never again."

Kaysa kissed Zale again while the clattering of pots and curses arose from the kitchen. "Hey!" Kaysa called out. "Watch your mouth, Merrick!"

"Sorry," Merrick called out. "Sorry."

"Keeve," Shiv said, as she tried squirming away from Keeve's groping hands. "Get your hand off. Fine. No more ear or eye plugging."

Keeve managed to finally wriggle his way off of Shiv's lap. "Thank you!" he said sourly. "It's not fair that I don't get to listen and watch everything that goes on. I'm not a little kid, you know. Little kids aren't allowed to have girlfriends, but I do, so that means I'm not a little kid."

Shiv giggled. "Well, then such a grown up young man should probably help contribute to the household finances. So, tomorrow, we can get you dressed up in your best suit, and you can go get a job to help pay for your share of this apartment."

Keeve grimaced, then shook his head quickly. "No...I have to stay here and take care of you, Auntie. No, that just won't do at all. I think I'll wait until my birthday to grow up."

"Okay, sweetie," Shiv said, and pulled him into a big hug. "We'll put you in charge of security around here, to make sure no more bad men come around."

"I think you should hire him, Zale." Kaysa grinned at him, then took his hand and drew him towards the table. "We can discuss the arrangements over lunch, if Merrick doesn't set fire to everything first."

"I heard that," came Merrick's voice from the kitchen. "And, nothing's burning. Just hold on for another minute, and it'll all be ready. Shit! Sorry, sorry!"

Kaysa smiled at Zale as he slid her chair out for her and helped her settle into it. "I'm starving. I haven't eaten solid food in four days."

"I imagine no matter what Merrick serves it'll be a feast then," Zale said with a grin. "Though, I imagine he's doing a great job in there. He seemed to be picking it up really well."

"Come on, Keeve," Shiv said. "Get into your seat because the food's almost ready."

Keeve climbed into the chair next to Shiv's and slipped his hand onto her thigh. He kicked his dangling feet happily beneath the table and watched Kaysa and Zale talking. "We're going to get married like them someday, right, Auntie Shiv?"

Shiv grinned at Kaysa and Zale whispering softly to each other. "Just like them," she said. "Except, we won't get married in secret, so all our friends can be there with us."

"Hmm...I don't have any friends yet...but you can invite some. But not Moronic Merrick." He looked up at Shiv and frowned. "He can't be invited."

"He has to be invited, Keeve," Shiv said. "If he can't be there, then neither can I."

"Not fair!" Keeve shouted, startling Kaysa and Zale. "Why does he have to be there? He's useless. He can't even cook!"

"Keeve," Kaysa called out gently. "He can...be the band. He'll sing for you guys...for free."

"That's another thing he can't do," Keeve added impatiently. "He can't sing!"

Shiv sighed. "I think someone's jealous," Shiv said to Kaysa. "Keeve, sweetie, I love Merrick, so he's going to be part of my life. It doesn't mean that I love you any less."

"So...you love me more than him?" Keeve asked. "You have to if you're going to marry me. You have to love me more."

Shiv smiled and gave Keeve a kiss. "My heart doesn't work that way, sweetie," she said. "I love you each, and I could never pick a favourite. I love you, sweetie, very much. And, I want you to be a happy boy who grows up into a happy man."

Keeve grinned at Shiv and slid his hand higher along her thigh. "I'd be happier if I could have a bath with you after."

Shiv reached down and plucked Keeve's hand from her thigh and deposited it back in his lap. "WE can't take a bath," she said. "But, I can help YOU with yours."

Keeve's eyes narrowed as he watched Shiv, but he slowly redirected his gaze to the real cause of Shiv's rejection. "She's right, Keeve," Kaysa said. "You shouldn't be bathing with her. It's...it's not right."

"Oh, what do you know?" he scoffed. "She's my girlfriend and I'm allowed to see her naked. She lets Merrick see her naked all the time. I saw them. And they were exercising together too...with orgasms, so I think I should be allowed to do the same with her, since she loves me too."

Kaysa didn't think her eyes could get any larger than they were as she gaped at Shiv. "Or-Orgasm? Exercises? Shiv...what have you been showing my child?"

Shiv didn't notice Kaysa gaping at her as she was too busy gaping at Keeve. She quickly shook her head to clear the sudden fog, and then turned to Kaysa. "It was late at night, and Merrick and I didn't lock the door. He walked in on us, but we locked it the next time. We stopped as soon as we saw him there...and...and there were no orgasms!"

"Yes there was," Keeve said. "I heard you saying that, Auntie Shiv. You said that word and I remembered it so I could give one to you too."

"No," Kaysa said firmly. "You will be doing no such thing, and neither will Shiv and Merrick, not as long as you are living under this roof."

Shiv's mouth hung open as she stared at Kaysa. "What? Are you saying that as long as Keeve is living here no one has sex?"

"No...I mean...yes..." Kaysa sighed sharply and pressed her fingers to her temple. "I just... Shiv, he's not ready to see that kind of stuff."

"I am too!" Keeve protested. "I'm not a little boy anymore!"

"You are!" Kaysa snapped. "You're only ten, Keeve. You're still a little boy and...you shouldn't be seeing Shiv naked and you shouldn't touch her the way you do."

"You're wrong. I'm not a little boy!" Keeve shoved his placemat, with plate and all, onto the floor and stood upon the seat of his chair. "You're stupid! You don't know anything. You're not my mother and I don't have to listen to you!"

The words struck Kaysa like the vibrodagger Dargus had pushed into her stomach. She sat silently with her hands neatly folded atop the table. Without another word, Kaysa calmly pushed back her chair and bowed her head to Keeve. "No...you don't." She moved slowly, yet dignified from the table, passing Merrick who had just come out with a tray of food, and moved through the hallway. Kaysa entered her bedroom and quietly closed the door behind her.

Shiv glared at Keeve. "Goddamn you, Keeve," she shouted. "Why do you have to be a fucking little brat!?" She pushed away from the table, sending her chair crashing back to the floor behind her and ran to her room.

Zale watched Keeve for a moment, and then gave a wry laugh. "Good job, sport," he said. "I think you just earned yourself a spanking. Which hand do you want? Real or mechanical?"

Keeve sighed defeatedly and hopped down off the chair. He marched over to Zale's side of the table, then bent over and dropped his pants. "Real," he said with a sigh.

Zale pulled the boy over his knee and proceeded to give him fifteen hard spanks across his backside. Once he was done, he helped Keeve stand up straight. "Now, go to your room and think about what you've done. Think about what it feels like to hurt people who love you and want to give you the best things in life. Think about how I'm not giving you a choice next time you do anything like this. Now go."

Rubbing his sore rear, Keeve nodded his head and plodded back to his room. He cast a glance towards Shiv's room for a moment, but decided against rapping on the door in case she was still mad. Instead, he disappeared into his bedroom and silently closed his door behind him.

---

"Second String, Part 3"
by Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral
Merrick Braston
and Keeve Zenarr [NPC]

Location: Yesdol District, New Plouton
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

Zale glanced up at Merrick who was standing behind him. "I think your gourmet feast will have to wait," he said as he stood up. He cuffed Merrick on the shoulder and then motioned for him to follow. "Come on," he said. "We've got work to do."

Merrick set the food he'd been carrying aside. "Maybe this is a sign," he said. "That I'm not supposed to be trying to cook."

"Not a chance, buddy," Zale said with a laugh. "You were born to the kitchen."

"Born to burn it down maybe."

They both shared humourless chuckles as they reached the door Kaysa had disappeared behind. Zale opened it quietly and both he and Merrick slipped inside.

"Keeve's been disciplined," Zale said. "And, he knows he did really bad out there. I don't think your parents ever learned to say no to him, and they gave him everything he wanted. We're going to have to teach him a few new things here. Like love."

Kaysa smiled tightly as she hugged a pillow to her chest. "Great. But I'm fine, really. You two can go and...enjoy your meal. I just need to think for a while."

"Shiv's locked herself in her room too," Zale said. "I think she's having a very difficult time trying to understand why Keeve hasn't fallen madly in love with you either. Or that he won't do anything as simple as just try to be a friend."

"Because he hates me," Kaysa stated simply. "And with good reason. I left him and now I've forced him away from his home. He thinks I'm trying to take him away from Shiv now and he resents me for it. I'd be acting the same way if I were in his position."

"If he'd seen your breasts first," Merrick said, "you'd be the one he'd be pushing everyone away from. He doesn't hate you because you took him away. I think he just naturally doesn't like anyone. The only reason he likes Shiv is because puberty's hitting early, and she was the first naked girl he's seen."

"But the fact remains that he is aggressive and hostile towards me, and I am not flashing my child just to gain his acceptance and love." Kaysa looked to Zale ruefully and laid her hand upon his. "My love...I think we're going to have to rethink this baby thing. I don't know if either of us is qualified to be a parent yet...especially if all my children turn out as temperamental as Keeve is."

"I don't know about you," Zale said, "but I think I just handled him very well. And, I think your parents are more to blame in this than genetics."

Merrick looked between the two, his features unreadable. "A baby?" he asked softly.

Kaysa gazed up at Merrick quizzically then laughed. "Yeah...we told you, remember? Zale...we told him that...didn't we?"

"You didn't say anything about babies," Merrick said as he took a seat on the edge of the bed.

"Oh," Kaysa mouthed. She slowly looked down at the pillow clutched to her chest, then buried her face into it. The only thought going through her mind then was that she really needed a nap to clear her mind, especially if she was forgetting things as important as telling Merrick she and Zale were trying to procreate. "Merrick...I'm sorry," she said as she raised her head to face him. "I thought...with everything going on I just thought..." She sighed and trepidly placed her hand atop Merrick's. "I... Zale and I wanna try for another baby, Merrick. I wanted to tell you before... I'm sorry."

"Another baby?" Merrick glanced between the two, almost afraid to hear the answer to that question.

"Gods... I'm making an even bigger mess," she whispered. "Merrick... I didn't mean for it to happen. I mean...Shiv was gone and I was so upset and stressed and it just slipped my mind to take my monthly birth control. Then...me and Zale were in prison and... It just...it happened." She gnawed at her lower lip as the blood came to mind again. So much blood...and her baby slipping away from her, literally through her fingers. "The doctors said there was no chance, not with the extent of my injuries. But Zale and I talked...and we want to try for another. I should've talked to you first, Merrick, I know...but it was... You weren't there and we'd just found out... I'm sorry."

"Oh gods, Kaysa," Merrick said as he pulled her into his arms. "I'm so sorry. I didn't know." His eyes darkened and he looked away. "He's going to die for that. That bastard is going to pay for every life he's ruined. He's going to pay, Kaysa!"

"No...Merrick...it's okay." Kaysa stroked Merrick's hair soothingly and held his trembling body tightly. "He will pay. Every evil thing he's done will catch up to him eventually, and he'll pay. It's alright, my love."

Merrick pulled away, and lurched to his feet. "No it's not okay," he snapped. "That bastard is trying to destroy us! It's not okay!"

"There's nothing you can do, Merrick! You're a musician, he's a murderer and crimelord. What do you think you can do about it?" Kaysa swung her legs over the side of the bed and pushed herself laboriously to her feet. She reached out to Merrick, trying to coax him back into her arms. "Merrick...please. I know you want revenge and you'd love more than anything to deal it personally, but so did Zale and look at what he did to him!"

"I'm also very rich," Merrick said. "I don't plan on going after him myself, but I'm going to make it very much worth someone's time to bring that bastard's dead body to me."

Instead of waiting for him to come to her, Kaysa stepped towards Merrick and grabbed him by the arms. "Don't be stupid, Merrick! If you start sending bounty hunters and mercenaries after him, he'll know and then he'll come after you! The baby wasn't even yours, Merrick. Why do you care? If anyone should go after Dargus, it's Zale. He lost a child and almost got killed. You've lost nothing, but if you don't stop this foolishness, you could lose everything including your life!"

"Nothing? What about my security? What about you and Shiv? Do you call that nothing? When I go out the door, I have to look over my shoulder to see if that prick has someone following me. That's nothing?"

"Yes! Compared to what you will lose, it is nothing!" Kaysa swung her head back towards Zale and beseeched him with imploring eyes to step in. "Merrick...please!" Kaysa begged as she focused on him again. "Just take some time to think this through before you do anything rash. Please..."

Merrick nodded. "I'll be careful, and I don't do anything I'm not prepared to protect myself against."

Zale frowned. "How much are you planning to offer for him?"

"Ten million," Merrick answered. "It will be the highest bounty ever posted, double what is being offered for the Butcher of Montellian Serat. If that much attention doesn't bring him down, nothing will."

"I can post it through my organization. It'll be safer for us that way. But, I want to wait a couple weeks before doing that. Let things settle from the fall of the Empire and Kandran's attacks. Once that happens though, security on all of us is going to be tighter than you can imagine. We'll have to use a guest room for on-site security, in addition to the men outside. And, all of us will have our own personal bodyguards."

Kaysa breathed heavily and rapidly, with the occasional whimper as she listened to Merrick and Zale discussing and plotting Dargus' death. She'd always thought Merrick the unassuming, sensitive musician...the man she'd fallen in love with. But what she realized in that moment, was that the thirst for vengeance had changed him and the role of the blood thirsty avenger didn't suit him at all.

With a sob, Kaysa rushed out of the room. Dargus was coming between them. He was invading their private lives and changing everything, including the Merrick she'd fallen in love with. Nothing was going to be the same, and that scared Kaysa more than anything Dargus could do to them.

"Kaysa, wait," Merrick called after her, nearly running to catch up to her. "Kaysa, please, don't...don't run... Please?"

"No!" she hollered back. "Just...go back to Zale and plot Dargus' death. It's the manly thing to do isn't it?" Kaysa sobbed quietly and, surprising even herself, walked into the kitchen and began throwing the pots into the sink for cleaning. "You don't care that this is exactly what he wants. He wants to tear us apart. He wants us to go against everything we believe in, to abandon our morals and our principles... This is exactly what he wants, and you're playing right into his hand!"

"We have to do something to stop him from terrorizing us, Kaysa," Merrick said softly. "I just want him to leave us alone, but he's not going to do it. We either have to kill him or give him what he wants. Until we do, he won't stop. He got to us at the party. He got to us outside our apartment. We have to either fight back or give up."

"Then give up." Kaysa turned around after shoving another pot into the sink. "Let Zale fight, because it's in his nature, not yours. Vengeance doesn't suit you, Merrick. This isn't you! Just go back to writing your songs and singing your way into the hearts of your groupies. But not this!"

"I'm just putting up the money to get him out of our lives," Merrick said. "I'm not going to try to fight him. If Dargus wants to fight the person whose face is attached to the money, that's Antorial and Zale. But, I'm not about to just sit back and write my music while he plays mind games with us. I'm not going to sit back and pretend that everything is fine when it's not. I'm going to do my part, Kaysa. I have to. I have to do my part to prove to you that I can provide...and protect."

Kaysa laughed wryly and shook her head slowly. "I can't believe I'm hearing this from you. Typical male attitude, Merrick! Already you're changing. Can't you see? Do you not even realize it? I'm not the weak, Tae'Karadan female whose purpose in life is to be a device for you to prove your manly worth. I'm not some helpless female you have to protect from the harsh world outside. If you have to prove something to yourself or to me, then find some other way to do it, Merrick."

Merrick growled something under his breath and spun around. He pushed through the door, slamming it wide. "I'll be at the club if you need me," he shouted back. "It looks like I'm useless enough around here anyway."

"Fine, Merrick. Feel sorry for yourself." Kaysa followed after him but stopped in the doorway of the kitchen. "You don't have to prove anything to me, Merrick. Why can't you see that?!"

Merrick turned when he reached the front door. "I'm just trying to fit in, Kaysa," he said. "I'm just trying to find my place here. Trying to...to be part of this family. But, I can't. I have to sit on my thumbs while Dargus Kandran tears us apart. I have to...I have to go be useful to someone. I have to go do something other than waiting for the next shoe to fall, for the next surprise to be unveiled, or for the next time I am just a moron again. I'll...I'll be back later."

"Merrick..." she called out, but her voice never made it from her constricted throat. "I love you...isn't that enough?" she whispered.

Merrick took a deep breath and then leaned back against the wall. "I love you, Kaysa," he said. "But...but you married Zale, you're having his baby, your son hates me, and he's probably never going to let me and Shiv have five minutes alone together. We're being attacked by a madman with powers beyond any of us, and I'm helpless. I have to stand back, out of danger, singing like everything is fine. I'm not fragile, I can take some bumps and bruises. But, you keep me on the shelf where nothing can hurt me...while you stand in the middle of danger with everyone else. I'm on the outside, Kaysa. I...I don't know anymore. I love you more than anything...but, everything is just so confused and upside down. I want to be with you...but..." He let out a long sigh.

Kaysa staggered forward and felt the blood draining from her face. "Merrick..." she said almost fearfully. "What are you saying? Are you... You're leaving me, Merrick?"

Merrick shook his head. "Of course I'm not leaving you," he said softly. "I love you too much...I just need some time... I'll be back in a few hours. I just...just need to spend some time at the club. Maybe play a set." And, feel the love of at least the faceless crowd cheering me on, he added in his mind. "I'll be back in a little while." The look on his face, and in his eyes, said he didn't want to go, but in his heart, he knew he needed something.

Kaysa nodded her head, or at least she thought she did. The fear and anxiety had rendered her speechless and immobile. He was leaving, and even though he said he'd return, slowly, those aspects of the man she loved were become lost in the chaos Dargus had created of their lives. That was the moment, upon witnessing the disheartened expression in Merrick's eyes, that Kaysa decided she wouldn't wait for bounty hunters and mercenaries to put a stop to Dargus Kandran. She'd do it herself.

"Goodbye, Merrick," she said quietly as she watched him go. She didn't know if she'd see him again after she did what she was setting out to do, so she gazed into his smoke-grey eyes and made sure to remember them, except when they were happier and brighter - before Dargus imposed himself into their lives.

Merrick watched her, unable to move himself out the door. He couldn't go, not with her looking at him like that. He couldn't. He turned aside and stared out into the hallway, and then turned back. "I can't go," he whispered. "I can't walk out the door, not like this. I can't leave you guys like this."

"But you're coming back," Kaysa said flatly. "You're coming back to us. If you have to go...I'll understand, my love."

"I can't walk out of here with us like this," Merrick said. "I can't run away from whatever problems we may face. I can't do that to us, Kaysa. It just drives us farther apart...and I want us as close as possible."

Kaysa smiled serenely and despite her relationship with Merrick so close to falling apart, she felt an immense calm. If today was her day to die, at least she wouldn't fear it. "Merrick...if you need time to yourself, take it. If you need to find out where you fit in this relationship, and if you think the answer is on that stage and in the faces of your adoring fans, then go. There'll be people who love you waiting for you here when you get back." Just not me, my love.

"I have everything I need here," Merrick said. "I don't need the stage or the fans to find that. I'll find out where I fit right here in this apartment. I can't find that anywhere else."

"Okay," she replied quietly and with a tight smile that betrayed her disappointment. Her face-off with Dargus would apparently have to wait now. "If that's what you wanna do...then okay, my love." Kaysa pulled her arms up and around herself as she looked back at the piling dishes in the sink. "I'll take care of those. You should go talk to Shiv now."

"Do you even want me here, Kaysa?" Merrick asked.

Kaysa sighed and propped herself against the frame of the doorway. "Why wouldn't I want you here, Merrick? Do you think that just because Zale is in my life now, I don't need you anymore? I don't need another man?"

"I was just wondering because of the great excitement you displayed when I decided I wasn't going to run away. I would have expected joy that I wasn't leaving, or maybe just relief. But disappointment?"

"No, Merrick, not disappointment at you staying." Kaysa didn't elaborate further. If she had, she'd have both Merrick and Zale preventing her from doing what she had already resolved herself to do. She smiled at Merrick warmly, feeding all her love for him into it. "I want you to stay, but only because you want to, Merrick, and not because you'll feel guilty about leaving us behind. There have been so many changes so quickly, and I just want you to do whatever you need to in order to adjust. None of us will blame you for having to take some time for yourself to just think. We all need that, from time to time."

"As long as your son isn't biting me," Merrick said with a smile, "I can think just fine right here."

Kaysa laughed softly, then pulled Merrick into her arms. "We'll fend him off together. And if you need a quiet place to do your thinking...I think the bathroom's free right now."

Merrick smiled. "I've also got my studio," he said. "Later, how would you like to come down there with me when I record that new song I wrote for you?"

Kaysa closed her eyes and sighed softly. "Now that's the Merrick I fell in love with. Make sure he never leaves again."

Merrick gave Kaysa a long, slow kiss. When he pulled away, he was smiling. "Promise," he said. "Maybe we should all move to a planet where they let women have multiple husbands. Then we can all be married to each other." He laughed, and then kissed her again.

"So that's what you're all upset about," Kaysa teased. "You can always marry Shiv if you wanna be someone's husband, but I think you'll have to compete with Keeve if you want that honour."

"I don't think Shiv will ever get married, even to Keeve," he said. "She likes being just Shiv far too much. And, I don't need to be married. I just need you, however I can get you. Preferably between the sheets with you crying out my name repeatedly." He laughed. "Or, sitting in my studio, and singing a song for you."

"Then that's what we'll do today. You and I can take care of those dishes, then we'll go down to the studio and you can sing me my song." She brushed her lips against his ear and laughed softly. "And maybe after that, we can stop by Zenarr Inc. and do a little catching up."

"I think I like the sound of that a lot," Merrick said with a grin. "Now, let's go get those dishes I got all messy cleaned up. And, I'll have to make sure you don't start a water fight."

"Me?" Kaysa smiled mischievously and began backing into the kitchen with Merrick. "I would never."

"No never," Merrick said with a laugh. "You really should have seen Keeve after Shiv stormed out of the room. Zale told him he was bad, and needed a spanking, and the boy dropped his pants and bent over Zale's knee. I think it really shook him up. Hopefully it'll stick."

"If he's as stubborn as I am, it won't stick for long." Kaysa shrugged and laughed ruefully. "And because of that, I think it's going to be quite a while before he comes to accept me."

"And, even longer before he's able to sit down," Merrick added with a laugh. "And, if he really wants to be Shiv's boyfriend, he's going to have to accept you a lot sooner than that."

"And if I really wanna be Merrick Braston's girlfriend, I better start appreciating him more." Kaysa brushed her hand through his hair and pressed her cheek to his. "I love you, Merrick. And whenever you're feeling like I'm slipping away, just know that I'll never stray too far before running back into your arms, Merrick. My heart would never let me."

"And, my heart will never let me walk away from you, for any reason. We're stuck with each other, and not even Keeve's teeth can keep us apart."

Kaysa chuckled gently and pulled Merrick closer. "My love...I think we should forget those dishes. I also think you should kiss me."

Merrick pulled Kaysa into his arms. "I think that's a great idea," he said, and then kissed her soundly. "It's so good to have you back with us, Kaysa. It's so good to have you in my arms again."

"Well, I was unconscious for a time. You could have snuck into my room late at night and just held me. The nurses might have thought you odd, but I wouldn't have minded a bit."

"Maybe I'll have to do that tonight then," he said. "And, except for the night before you woke up, I was by your bed holding your hand the whole time. Zale sent me and Shiv home with Keeve, or I would have been there with you when you woke up. But, Shiv and I got there as fast as we could."

Kaysa smiled warmly. "I know, Merrick. You don't have to explain anything. I know you were by my side, even though I wasn't consciously aware of anything. You love me, and even though I don't doubt I looked horrible, you just can't resist this sultry brunette."

"How could anyone resist this sultry brunette? Speaking of sultry...I think one of us should go visit Shiv and make sure everything's alright in there. Though, I think she'd rather have you in there with her."

"Only because she's been meaning to get me into bed all morning." Kaysa kissed Merrick tenderly, and finally had to pull herself from his arms before they desecrated the kitchen. "I'll go get Zale in here to help you, then you boys can discuss certain issues that definitely need to be resolved between the two of you, like whose bed I shall be in tonight."

Merrick smiled. "We could always get all four of us into a room and see what happens," he said with a smile. "And, Zale and I will figure it out. But, if he pulls my hair again..." He gave her another kiss and then laughed. "I'll see you soon, my love."

Kaysa left Merrick behind in the kitchen to deal with the mess his dabble in the culinary arts had produced and stopped by her bedroom to get Zale into the kitchen and helping. "It won't make you any less of a man," she said to him after he emitted a low grumble. "In fact, I think a man in the kitchen is sexy."

Zale was on the verge of another complaint, when her comment stopped him. "Really? Those little aprons and the spoons and pans? Hmmm." He looked around. "You know, I think it'd be a good idea if I go help Merrick in the kitchen."

"Well then," Kaysa said as she stepped aside. "Get moving, big man."

"Sexy man," Zale corrected with a grin. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have dishes to clean." With that, he got to his feet and slipped out into the other room.

Kaysa shook her head and laughed softly as she followed Zale out, but stopped as she reached the door to Shiv's room. She hesitated with her hand hovering at the door before she tapped on it gently. "Shiv? Are you awake?"

"Yes," came Shiv's voice from inside. A moment later, the lock on the door slid back and it opened. Her eyes were rimmed red from crying, but she gave Kaysa a smile anyway. Once Kaysa was inside, Shiv slid the door closed. "How are you doing?"

Kaysa's only reply was to slip her arms around Shiv and comfort her with an embrace. "You silly girl... Why are you crying?"

"Everything was supposed to be perfect when you came home," Shiv said. "But, it was anything but. And, I messed everything up with Keeve. I mean, letting him see me naked and everything. It's just...I didn't know that...that I wasn't supposed to. On Agarra, we just all...I mean...nudity was never an issue. I won't do it anymore around him."

"Shiv...I know you didn't do it on purpose. You would never do anything to harm him in any way." Kaysa rubbed her back soothingly and tried to calm her worries with gentle kisses. "I blame you for nothing, Shiv. I'm not angry with you. I'm grateful that Keeve had someone like you to take care of him. I'm so lucky to have you, and so is he."

Shiv slipped her arms around Kaysa and smiled. "And, I'm lucky to have you. No more naked Shiv around Keeve though. Though, I think he's going to be upset with me. I think he's fixated on my breasts."

"Well...they're cute breasts. The perfect size for his little hands." Kaysa laughed and rocked Shiv gently in her arms. "He'll be fine. I think he needs to know that he can't keep doing rotten things to people and expect to still remain in your good graces."

"Well, he won't," Shiv said. "If he can't be nice to all of us here, then he's not going to stay in my good graces. He hates Merrick. He'd probably hate Zale too if he wasn't afraid of Zale spanking him. It definitely makes me wonder about your parents' parenting skills." She grinned and kissed Kaysa. "You turned out alright though."

"With a little help from a certain nymph, a charming musician, and a badass crimelord."

"A badass crimelord with a really big heart," Shiv said with a giggle. "Don't forget about the big heart on that one. And, the musician is really charming, even when he doesn't want to be. He was trying to tell me about something rude Keeve told him, and...and it was really cute."

Kaysa laughed and pulled Shiv down onto the bed with her. "He is cute, isn't he? Zale can be too, but I think Merrick has got him beat in that category."

"Zale's all tough and manly, and strong and badass," Shiv giggled, "but there's that way that Merrick can look at you that...oh gods...in those moments, there's no mistaking just how much of a man he really is. They're both beautiful people, and they're all ours!"

"And I hope they stay that way," Kaysa said quietly. She unconsciously held Shiv tighter as she thought of Merrick walking through the door, away from her instead of towards her. "We almost lost him today - I did. He doesn't think he's as manly as we think he is, and when he told me of his plan to prove that to me... Things can fall apart far too easily, Shiv. How can we keep it all together?"

"Wild sex," Shiv said with a grin. At Kaysa's look, she laughed. "I think we need to give him lots of loving, and make sure he knows we love him very much. And, I think we need to keep him away from Keeve when Keeve's in one of his moods."

"From what I can tell, Keeve's always in one of his moods. But we have to try, Shiv. We have to let Merrick know that he still fits in here. With so many people in one place, I can see how he can easily feel displaced, but we have to let him know he belongs and he's important."

"My bed's big enough," Shiv said softly, "and I want you and Merrick in here tonight with me. We can all curl up together like reisakitties, and just spend the whole night in each other's arms, and showing Merrick all the loving he could ever handle. Please?"

Kaysa grinned at Shiv as she gently pushed her back onto the bed. "We can start now if you promise to be very quiet."

Shiv's eyes went wide with delight. "I'll be very, very quiet," she whispered. "I promise."

"Then go lock the door, my love, and I'll get comfortable."

Without a sound, Shiv climbed out of the bed, and locked the door. When she turned back to Kaysa, her grin was large and full of joy. Moving as sexily as she knew how, she approached Kaysa. "Are you comfortable, my love?"

"Hmm...not quite yet." She sat up in the bed and began unbuttoning the shirt Zale had brought to her at the hospital. "You might have to help your old, decrepit lover. She's not as limber as she used to be."

"Oh, I'll help limber you up," Shiv said as she slid onto the bed next to Kaysa. Her hands deftly moved in to help with the shirt, but her eyes remained focused on Kaysa's the entire time.

Kaysa giggled as she began tugging on the hem of Shiv's shirt. With some effort, she managed to pull it off over her head and fling it across the room. "See...perfectly sized," Kaysa commented as she covered Shiv's breasts with her hands.

"Oh yes," Shiv said as she pressed further into Kaysa's hands. "And, in just a moment, we'll see just how perfect yours are too." Once the final button had been dealt with, she spread open Kaysa's shirt and smiled. With a giggle of her own, she lowered her lips to Kaysa's chest, and kissed each breast in turn. "Perfect."

Kaysa smiled as she weaved her hands around Shiv and attempted to unfasten her own pants. It was undetectable to any who didn't know what they were looking for, but the faintest scar from her encounter with Dargus' vibrodagger was still visible. She lightly ran her finger along the livid flesh and frowned pensively. If only for that, she would kill him, but she would make certain he suffered before death came to him.

Kaysa took a deep breath and closed her eyes. The blood and that malicious smile on his face... They would haunt her for always and hopefully she could purge the nightmares once she wreaked vengeance upon him.

She opened her eyes and cradled Shiv's face in her hands. "Come, my love," she said softly. "Lie with me."

Shiv nodded and slipped her arms around Kaysa. "Okay," she whispered. After a few moments of silence, she sighed softly. "I love you, Kaysa."

"I love you, my little nymph." Kaysa kissed Shiv slowly and lovingly. She smoothed her hand over Shiv's breasts and down to her stomach before slipping it between Shiv's legs. "I'm home now, Shiv. Now everything can be normal again...relatively."

Shiv's back arched of its own accord while a moan escaped. "Oh, you are definitely home," she whispered. "Merrick is damn good, but he doesn't know how to touch me the way you do. Oh gods, Kaysa. You have very beautiful hands."

"I bet you say that to all your girlfriends." Kaysa kissed Shiv again while working her hand into Shiv's pants to elicit thick moans. She knew with the little strength and energy she had, she wouldn't be able to do anything too fancy, but she wanted to at least prove her love to Shiv.

There would be little time to do so in the coming days with all the preparations she needed to make, and if she was successful in her endeavour, the portrait of her hanging on the wall would be the only thing Shiv or any of her loves would have left of her. At least, though, they could find comfort in knowing that they would no longer have to look over their shoulders, for Dargus Kandran would never be able to touch them again, not when Kaysa Zenarr was done with him.

---

"Reporting In, Part 1"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Rilanna Kir
Dargus Kandran

Location: Drogen Shipyards, Tae'Remok System
Date: Niothe 11, 4 ABY

***

"I'm picking up a power fluctuation on deck forty-eight," one of the operations personnel on the command deck of the shipyards said. "Section C."

"Dispatching a repair team," one of the others responded.

As the solitary figure moved deeper into the deck, she picked up more and more of the same type of chatter.

"Freighter Resti'kada, move to oh-three-seven, and await docking sequence."

Rilanna Kir could only wonder at how they could all manage to keep it all straight. With so many other voices, so much other noise... She laughed and was glad she was only responsible for keeping the people inside safe from harm. Finally, she spotted her target: Shrezade Anoran. She altered her course, and moved toward her commanding officer.

"Mrs. Anoran," Rilanna said once she was close enough. "I just thought I'd check in before starting in on the rest of the day's work." Then with a chuckle, she added: "You look like you got more sleep than I did last night."

Reza shot Rilanna an almost expectant, yet teasing smile as she turned to face her security chief. "So...I gather your evening with the major was a success?"

"Mostly," Rilanna said with a grin. "We are closer, and I think it shouldn't be very difficult for me to get into his confidence. I would have gotten farther, but there was a hostage situation that required my attention."

Reza laughed softly and leaned back against the railing of the platform. "I won't bother asking for details, but is he quite smitten with you yet?"

"I think he's taken with me," Rilanna said. "Though, time will tell. We made arrangements for me to meet him in his quarters for dinner one night." She glanced over at Shrezade, a wide grin fighting to escape. "Take that as you will," she added as a little bit of the grin finally made it out.

"I see..." Reza cocked an eyebrow at Rilanna and studied her face scrupulously. "And what of you, Ms. Kir? Are you taken with this man?"

"He's a nice enough man, and I enjoy spending time with him. Though, he's too reserved for my tastes. He practically made me make the first move. I'm as taken with him as I need to be to complete this mission, and we'll see about beyond that. I prefer a man who goes after what he wants and doesn't wait for me to take what I want. If I don't like what he's doing, I'll let him know." Rilanna glanced at Reza and laughed. "To answer your question, I'm not taken with him. I like him, but definitely not taken."

"Good. It just wouldn't do for you to start going easy on the man simply because you had feelings for him." Reza grinned at Rilanna and turned back towards the view of the flightdeck. "You were brilliant at dinner, if I may say so. It took much self-control to refrain from laughing at your comments."

"Thank you," Rilanna said with a smile. "I think I had a few more good ones when we were out walking. Though, I think I'm going to have to work at getting him to loosen up and let his men take full advantage of the entertainment deck. He said they aren't allowed to gamble. I wonder if he even realizes that that decision is actually hurting the station. The revenue generated from that entertainment deck is a significant source of funding, especially now that the previous owner has been divested of his interests in this place."

"Well, as long as we can keep the dealings legal, I'm certain you can convince the major to partake of the gambling facilities. Perhaps you can promote it by taking him on a tour one day."

"Well, he didn't seem too interested when I took him there last night," Rilanna said, "but next time, I'll make sure that we sit in on a few hands of sabacc or something like it. I'm sure I can convince him to loosen up." She wanted to say something about how they both had loosened up considerably in the gym, but refrained. "I imagine his men will find other places to spend their money if it's not in the casinos though."

"As long as they are staying here and using up the resources of this station, I expect them to at least contribute something to its financial state." Reza straightened up and smoothed out the jacket of her suit. "Shall we walk, Ms. Kir? I can only spend so much time staring at ships without becoming extremely bored."

Rilanna indicated back the way she came, and then started alongside Shrezade. "I am certain the major will agree that his people's presence here should boost station economy, and if he doesn't, then I'll do what I can to make him see it that way. They may be Empire, but they can't have a free ride. If they think they can, I'll make sure they use far less resources. Of course, that will probably require diminished power allotments and living space...but they'll manage."

"But you will make sure Major Weyland is quite comfortable, will you not?" Reza smiled suggestively at Rilanna, then looked ahead again.

"Oh, very comfortable," Rilanna said with a grin. "I'll make sure he's more comfortable than he's ever been in his life. How do you suppose he would take to having his quarters upgraded? As a sign of our gratitude for his presence here?"

Reza laughed wryly and nodded. "I think that would be feasible. I give you the authority to approve his transfer to new quarters if you wish. I imagine if you're going to be spending plenty of time in them, it might as well be a pleasant place for you to visit."

"Most definitely," Rilanna said. "And, it'll probably be better if I visit him in his, rather than him visiting me in mine. I don't want him getting his hands on my arsenal because I'm certain he'll find something in there that he doesn't approve of, regardless of whether or not it gets used."

"Is there anything in there I wouldn't approve of?" Reza asked suspiciously.

Rilanna laughed softly. "I have some weapons that the Empire has outlawed that I've collected in my travels, though there is nothing inherently evil or bad about them. They are merely keepsakes from my various bounty hunting expeditions. Though, one day I would love to add a lightsaber to the collection. Nothing yet though."

"Oh, Rilanna Kir, you truly are unique," Reza commented admirably. "Whereas you have your collection of weapons, I collect rare vintages of wine. Rather paltry items, but important in their own way. There is little in this life that I find amusing or enjoyable, and my wines are just that...as are you, Rilanna Kir."

Rilanna grinned. "Thank you," she said. "And, I happen to like wine very much, and I think we should share a bottle one of these nights. Though, not one of the vintage ones...but still a good one. I find myself more...comfortable around you, and I enjoy the time that we spend together. When you lead a solitary existence, it's always nice to find someone you can connect to on any level."

"On most levels," Reza corrected. "I do not have your penchant for artillery, remember, but I agree that we have many things in common in certain areas." She glanced over at Rilanna with a smile. "I would be glad to share one of my vintage wines with you, Ms. Kir. I would only ever think of sharing them with someone I truly admired and respected."

"Thank you," Rilanna said again. "That's very kind of you to--"

"Well, well," a voice said from behind them. "I should have expected to see Mrs. Shrezade Anoran around here, but it is still a surprise."

An instinctive scowl soured Reza's expression, one stemming from her ingrained hatred of that voice. Many a time, he had used it to persuade her with sweet words to join him in his bed, but when devising his courtship strategies, he hadn't accounted for the fact that her heart was as cold as a dead star. Failure was inevitable from the very start. But that man was dead, much to her pleasure and benefit. She'd still be working under him if he wasn't, but upon his death came her instant promotion to station administrator.

Reza turned around casually and did nothing to hide her sneer. The man standing before her was dark and handsome like Kandran, but the face was completely different. A pity. She was planning on having Rilanna shoot him where he stood if it did happen to be Kandran back from the dead.

"Yes? Do I know you?" Reza asked impatiently. "If not, stop wasting my valuable time."

"Oh yes," he said with a wide smile. "You probably wouldn't recognize me. Though, you haven't changed a bit. Still the self-important bitch I hired to run this place."

In her life, Reza had learned that often, the impossible was still probable, and another example of that was standing before her now. His outer appearance had changed dramatically, but she certainly knew Dargus Kandran when she heard him. "So," she began as she crossed her arms over her chest, "you're not dead. A shame. I really enjoyed renovating your former quarters to my liking."

"Don't worry," Dargus said with a smile. "I'm not interested in the quarters or reclaiming my former ownership of the station. It's yours, and you're doing well with it. I was here on business, and spotted you. I thought it would be the friendly thing to do to say hello." He looked around, and then back to Shrezade. "No, I have more important goals, especially down on the planet. I know the Empire is reforming under Tarkin, and you were a strong supporter of the fallen Empire. However, I feel that Tarkin's goals will only bring about his ruin. The remnants of what was just cast down need to be forgotten. The wounds are too fresh. I have ideas that will make the planet below and this station much stronger, much more important."

"Kandran, you never were to be trusted, and you gave even more credence to that by faking your own death...which is, presumably, why you are still standing before me."

"That death very nearly happened," Dargus said. "My ship was shot down over the Tarkayze Sea, and I would have perished if a friend hadn't come to save me from that fate. I cheated death, I didn't fake it. And, you could say that experience has changed me profoundly."

Reza smiled wryly. "How nice for you, Kandran. And forgive me for saying so, but the day of your supposed death was one of the most enjoyable I've ever had. Now, if you would like to discuss something further with me, feel free to arrange an appointment with my secretary." She leaned forward and grinned. "I'm sure she can fit you in somewhere."

"You are a cold, bitter woman, aren't you," Dargus said. "I am so very glad you didn't let me seduce you when we met, or you might have frozen my dick right off. Now, that mousy little secretary of yours..."

"You're still disgusting as ever, aren't you?" Reza frowned with distaste and stepped back towards Rilanna. "You are a guest on this station, Mr. Kandran, so I expect you to abide by all the rules and regulations. If not, I'm certain my security chief here has a free cell in the stockade for you. So, I suggest you play nice during your stay, or I'll show you how cold I truly am."

Dargus' eyes narrowed. "You don't know the meaning of cold," he said, his voice edged with menace. He looked over Rilanna as if seeing her for the first time. He raised an eyebrow and gave an approving nod. "I am glad to see that you've gotten rid of that previous head of security. He was a lecherous bastard if I've ever seen one, and I should know." He let out a sigh, and then laughed. "I want to propose a truce between us. I will be ruling the planet below, and you will want to be an ally, not an enemy."

"I shall decide that, Mr. Kandran," Reza replied curtly. "But I believe if your offer is appealing to me, I might consider it. You'll have to sell me on it, of course, for I am indebted to Tarkin. I cannot simply betray him without losing the funding he is providing the station."

"Whatever funding he is providing you with," Dargus said, "you can expect double from me. He doesn't understand the strategic importance of this station, nor the tenuous relationship between Drogen and the planet. He doesn't understand the things that I do. Under my rule, you will continue to enjoy your autonomy, and I'll make sure that the importance of your station and all generated revenue increases by five hundred percent."

"Revenue I most likely won't see half of after you get your hands on it," Reza replied cynically. "You never were known for your generousity and honour, Kandran."

"This station won't be the only source of income," Dargus said. "As I told you before, I am a changed man. And, you will still turn a very healthy profit, Mrs. Anoran. Perhaps we will need to talk on this further."

"If you wish to convince me, we will. Come by my office and we can discuss it then." She looked to Rilanna and nodded. "Good day, Mr. Kandran. I wish I could say it's been a pleasure, but I've never been one to utter false sentiments."

Dargus could only laugh, loud, long laughter that seemed to echo around the corridor. Finally it started diminishing, but then he looked at her again and started all over. But then, just as quickly as it had started, the laughter stopped. "I look forward to the meeting, Mrs. Anoran." He half-bowed to each of them, and then turned and strode down the corridor.

"Insufferable man," Reza muttered as her eyes followed Dargus' departure. "Come, Rilanna. Let us find some part of this station that has not been infested by criminal scum."

Rilanna shook her head and turned her gaze from Dargus. "He is truly a bizarre man," she said. "Level sixteen is free of scum, and we can get a kaffe if you'd like."

"Certainly." Reza started off down the corridor, in the opposite direction from Dargus. "You know, I really do think we need to set up tighter security for all incoming travellers. I'm certain we could better restrict who comes onto the station."

"We can establish checkpoints at all entrances into the station from the docking areas. And, then, we can check ID chips of anyone wishing to get inside."

"You would need to increase your security force...which means I would need more revenue to pay for the extra employees." Reza sighed inaudibly and pursed her lips tightly. "I believe Mr. Kandran's offer is already looking more tempting."

Rilanna nodded. "I'll begin working on the logistics of these changes. I'll have a proposal to you by the end of the day, that way we can begin working on the budgetary adjustments."

"You're very prompt and organized, Rilanna," Reza commented. "And you have a knack for business affairs. One day, you could be running this station."

"Only if that's what you want me to do," Rilanna said with a laugh. "I would never wish to usurp your authority on this station, nor steal it out from under you." She grinned. "Though, I do really like being her security chief."

"Really?" Reza nodded her head slowly, then asked, "And why is that?"

"Because I can make more of a difference here in this position than I can freelancing Downbelow. I have a prominent hand in making sure that the laws are followed and justice is served. Those are important to me."

"As they are to me, which is perhaps why we have such an amicable relationship." Reza stepped onto the nearest lift with Rilanna by her side. She prompted it to transport them to level 16, as far below on the station as she normally got. "So...tell me, Rilanna, when will you be completing your assignment concerning Major Weyland? Have you got anything particularly damning we can use against him?"

"It was only one night, so I wasn't able to get much on him," Rilanna said. "However, he did seem extremely frustrated when we were forced to stop getting closer."

"I don't mean to pry," Reza said with a small grin, "but how close was that?"

"Very, very close," Rilanna said. "I was pretty much naked, with my underwear on the way off. And, I would have had his underwear off next. So, if they'd waited another thirty seconds before contacting us..." She let the words trail off, and allowed Reza to form her own mental picture.

Reza was rarely shocked, and this was certainly one of those occasions. "And...you feel this is completely necessary to trap this man? I mean...doesn't it bother you that you are using your body to lure him into his own downfall?"

Rilanna shook her head. "The other night you were practically encouraging me to do this," she said. "I'm doing what I can to get him to get closer, to make him open up to me. I'm not trying to lure him to any downfall, just to give us the information we need to not be so blindsided by the Empire."

"Well then," Reza said, recovering from her discomfort, "as long as you're enjoying yourself in the process."

Rilanna laughed softly. "Well, it was very enjoyable," she said. "Well...except for the part where he was just sitting back and making me make all the moves."

"Ah," Reza said with a nod, "typical male. It's a wonder they're still able to hold any position of power in this universe whatsoever. It's the women behind the scenes who truly promote order and keep everything from falling apart."

Rilanna shook her head. "It's truly amazing. I don't think he was toying with me, but at times it sure felt like it. Like he was holding back to see how far I was going to go before he could make his move. It was like he wanted to be certain I wasn't going to spook or do anything else before he allowed himself to get closer to me." She smiled. "But, I got close, and he let his guard down...among other things. I think I'll be able to get pretty close to him, maybe all the way into his confidence."

"And once that happens, you will feel no qualms about betraying him?"

"None," Rilanna said. "I am doing my job as the head of security of this station, and the safety of those on this station comes first. Though, I don't think of it as betrayal, just holding a hidden motive."

"Precisely." Reza watched Rilanna with pride and respect. She truly was worthy of being her friend and acquaintance.

The doors of the halted lift parted and Reza stepped out with Rilanna. She was always surprised at the number of people who inhabited her station, which she only noticed when trying to make her way through a bustling crowd on any one level. She enjoyed the fact that she was almost anonymous, for in aggregated spaces such as these, one never knew where the assassins lurked and when they might strike. Reza rather enjoyed her life and wasn't too anxious on having it end anytime soon.

"So, Ms. Kir...dinner in my quarters tomorrow evening?" Reza asked unexpectedly.

---

"Reporting In, Part 2"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Rilanna Kir

Location: Drogen Shipyards, Tae'Remok System
Date: Niothe 11, 4 ABY

***

Rilanna smiled and then nodded. "I will be happy to attend," she said. "Let me know if I should bring anything, like a dessert or salad."

"Why?" Reza asked almost worriedly. "Is my chef's cooking not to your approval? I can have him replaced if you wish, Rilanna."

"Oh no," Rilanna said quickly. "No, he's perfect. It's just...I just wanted to offer to contribute something. If your chef has everything under control, then I guess I'll just bring myself."

"If you would like to bring something, by all means do so, Ril." Reza watched for Rilanna's reaction to the nickname she used, then smiled and continued. "I want you to feel at home in my quarters. You are welcome to drop by anytime, even without a dinner invitation."

"Thank you," Rilanna said with a much larger smile. "I'll remember that. And, you're always welcome at my quarters. Perhaps you and I should visit the entertainment deck sometime. I hear they have some great two-d and three-d holos there."

"Well...as long as we do not have to mingle with any shady patrons. Otherwise, I think that might be rather enjoyable."

"I'll make sure all the shady patrons are gone before we go," Ril said. "I don't think I could stomach the time with them around, especially when I'm supposed to be relaxing."

"I could have the entire deck cleared and sealed off if you wish," Reza offered. "After all, I do have some power left around here. The Grand Admiral hasn't completely neutralized me yet."

"And if I have anything to say about it, he won't," Rilanna said. "Not that I really have much authority in that situation, however I can be quite influential when I want to be."

"This, I know. You have a very strong presence, Rilanna. You are a powerful, confident woman, much as I am. If you want something, I believe you can get it, Ril." She leaned towards Rilanna and whispered, "And I'm certain you will have Major Weyland, if you want him." Reza shot Rilanna a wink as she straightened up again.

Ril laughed softly. "I'll have him because I want him, but not in the way he wants to be wanted," she said. "I'll make sure we get what we need from him. Though, I have to admit that it will be kinda fun getting to that point. But, I promise to keep myself focused on my duties."

"Good. Just because we are amicable, Rilanna, does not mean I will tolerate failure." Reza softened her suddenly stern expression and added less harshly, "But I know you will not fail. Your goals are as mine are, and even though you might not care about letting me down, I think you are far too proud and ambitious to fail yourself."

"I am proud and ambitious, and won't allow myself to fail," Rilanna said with a nod, "but I also do care about not letting you down. You are my friend and my employer, and I won't let you down."

Reza said nothing and merely smiled inwardly. Life was so much easier with a security chief whose goals and character were so much like her own, and whose morals weren't as loose as some of the scum living downbelow. "You made certain that Chran had a very unpleasant farewell, did you not?"

Rilanna nodded. "Very unpleasant," she said. "I don't think he'll ever even consider stepping on this station again, and if he does, he'll have nightmares like you wouldn't believe." She sighed. "I had to lock him in one of the cells for a night because he was getting quite unruly. I don't think that he liked that he was packed in there with some Downbelow scum."

"Oh, Rilanna!" Reza said joyously as she clapped her hands together. "You are brilliantly fiendish! I imagine, however, he fit in quite well with that bunch."

"He wasn't very happy about it to begin with," Rilanna said, "but I think by the end of the night they were very close." She laughed. "He doesn't like me at all."

"I imagine I am no longer his favourite person either. He was a good advisor, mind you." Reza suddenly grimaced. "However, his extracurricular activities showed extremely bad judgement and were wantonly irresponsible and immoral."

Rilanna nodded. "From what his men say, he was a good security officer. What was it that he did?"

Reza scoffed at the image of the purple slut that popped into her mind. "He was mingling with the less savoury elements of this station, and paying for their...services."

"Paying--?" Rilanna shuddered. "I'm not entirely conservative about those sorts of relations, between man and woman that is. But, to pay for it?" She shook her head, and felt like spitting. "I don't see how anyone could bring themselves to stand close to that sort of scum, let alone getting intimate with it."

"As far as I'm concerned, he has been contaminated by their filth. That is why I could no longer have him associating with me, or remaining on this station. At least now, there's one less parasite to dispose of." Reza looked around at the concourse area of the level, then to Rilanna. "I am unfamiliar with the establishments on this level. You may choose one."

"Let's try this one over here," Rilanna said. "They serve some of the best Coruscant food on the station according to Treggins." She grinned. "Though, I think that's only because Treggins has never had any of that beautiful food your chef makes."

"And he never will. That privilege is reserved for those I tolerate, and those, such as Major Weyland, who I wish to ply with the sumptuous delights my chef whips up." Reza smiled slyly. "So, in the end, it pays to spend a little extra on such luxuries."

"Luxuries are there for those who can afford them," Rilanna said with a grin. "So, the food should be good, but not quite as good as what you can get in your home."

"Well of course not," Reza replied with a haughty jut of her chin. "If it were, I fear I would have to begin paying my chef less."

"Well, I can assure you, your chef is far better than any other eating establishment on this station." Rilanna led the way inside the restaurant, and toward a small table in the far corner. "I've never been here before, but Treggins had a good suggestion about the Rodian place across the way and it was good when I went there. So, I'm going to trust him in this recommendation as well." She sat on one side, and allowed Reza to take the other.

Reza pulled out her chair and examined the seat for any signs of tack or stains she would rather not put into contact with her clothing. Once she was satisfied that the chair was suitably clean, Reza sat down upon it and folded her hands atop the table. "It seems sanitary enough," she said with a raised brow. "I must confess that I do not often eat in such facilities. You will have to advise me on what to order."

Rilanna looked over the menu that was sitting at the table already and frowned. "I think I would recommend the hesprit salad and the tabri and chaz sandwich. Though, it's all Coruscant cuisine, so we should be safe with whatever you normally prefer."

"I believe I shall have the salad. I have been meaning to trim up my form." Reza grinned and leaned forward. "I must congratulate you on your choice of dress yesterday evening. It was perfectly alluring, yet not too scandalous."

"Thank you very much," Rilanna said with a wide smile. "I saw it and knew it was perfect immediately. And, I do think that the major liked it very much. You wouldn't believe how comfortable it was, even with all that skin showing."

"I imagine that is the case because you are such a confident woman, Rilanna. However, I am as well and I don't think I would be able to wear such a thing."

Rilanna laughed and blushed. "Well, I think if we were going to someplace with lots more people, and a man I wasn't intending to seduce for information, I don't know if I'd be comfortable wearing it either."

"I can't actually remember the last time I held a formal event on this station, so you're most likely in luck."

"Don't worry," Ril said with a laugh, "if you ever do, I'll be wearing my body armour."

Reza chuckled and finally gestured for a waiter to come over. "Armour? Is this something from your collection of toys?"

"Sometimes, things get pretty hot and harder to handle," Rilanna said. "So, in those times it's good to have a lot of protection. That's what the battle armour is for. It's a suit of armour styled after the warriors of Mandalore."

"I see..." Reza said as she nodded slowly. "A good idea, Rilanna. I want you to always be very careful and well-protected. It would be a shame to lose you, Rilanna. Truly."

"I think it would be a shame to lose me too," Rilanna said with a grin. "I kind of like me being alive and mobile and things. And, I'll stay alive. I don't go down easily, and when I do go down, I don't stay."

"I should hope not," Reza said playfully. "If you did, who would be there to protect me?"

The waiter finally arrived at their table and took their orders. Reza gave him strict instructions on the preparation of her salad, then shooed him away. He glanced back at their table quizzically as he walked, then shook his head and went about his work again.

"I do not think I could ever work menial labour. It may sound conceited of me, but I am not cut out for that sort of occupation. As you can imagine, I don't take orders from others very well."

Rilanna smiled. "I can only take orders from those people I respect and admire," she said. "Anyone else...I guess if someone I don't respect wants me to do something, and it coincides with my own goals, I will. But otherwise..." She glanced around. "Some days do you just feel like evacuating the station, and then letting only the people you want here back on?"

Reza leaned forward with a wicked smile. "Forming an idea, Rilanna?"

Rilanna smiled. "It could work. If we evacuated, and had the resources to do it, we could regulate the return to the station, and keep out those elements we don't want here."

"I have a feeling our Major Weyland wouldn't appreciate that because, of course, we'd have to evacuate him too and I'm not so certain he'd be allowed back on the station next time."

Rilanna gave Reza a grin to match the one Reza was giving her. "Now, you say that as if it would be a bad thing," she said. "Though, it would be very funny if we allowed the major's men back onto the station, but not the major."

"They would be without leadership," Reza mused, "which of course means they're liable to make a mistake and blow up my station." She shuddered at that thought and shook her head. "Oh, we'd have to do away with all of them at once."

Rilanna nodded. "We would need to devise a system to make it all work smoothly. We would probably need to convert one of the cargo bays into a staging area." She smiled. "I think we'll need a lot of extra security. I have a feeling that neither the major nor the scum will be happy."

"No," Reza said with an amused smile, "they will not be." She sat back against her chair with her eyes staring off into the distance and imagining the great day to come. "When can it be arranged?"

"It will take a little time to run my teams through the drills we'll need to prepare," Rilanna said. "And, during that time we can prepare the rest of the operations for the evacuations, and subsequent re-integration of the welcome elements of the station. We should be ready to run through this operation in two and a half weeks."

"Very well. You can draw up the proposal and we can meet to discuss the plans further. I imagine Dargus Kandran won't appreciate being thrown off the station."

"But I will thoroughly enjoy throwing him off," Rilanna said. "What a completely disgusting man. You don't think he'd seriously try to do anything with your secretary, do you?"

Reza snorted derisively. "The man would attempt to seduce any being with the proper anatomy, and my secretary is a bumbling fool who would be idiotic enough to fall for him."

Rilanna shook her head. "She's weak-minded and desperate for attention. But, that could be just poor breeding. Overall, I believe she is truly harmless."

"Oh, she is," Reza agreed readily. "But it's Kandran I don't trust. He could use that pathetic wretch to do his bidding, whatever that may be, and she would do it if she's smitten enough."

Rilanna nodded. "Very true," she said. "We should probably keep an eye on her...just in case. And, I'll have my men watch Kandran."

The waiter approached with their meals and set the appropriate one before Reza and Rilanna. One look from Reza, and he scurried away before she had time to raise a fuss about something or other. "The meal is on me today, Ril. For all the wonderful work you do, it's the least I could do."

"You know, if you hadn't become a station administer, I think you would have had a career in security. You intimidate better than over half of the security squad. One look, and you can definitely keep the peace." Rilanna arranged her meal to her liking, and then picked up the utensils and started in on it.

"I agree...however I am no good at all with a weapon." Reza pierced a lettuce leaf with her fork. "In fact, I have never used one before."

"With a glare like yours," Rilanna said once she was finished with a bite of her food, "you don't need a weapon."

Reza laughed her mechanical, almost cackling laughter. "But I doubt it would work on you. You're immune to it by now, which means if you ever turned on me, I would be utterly defenseless."

"I don't turn on my employers," Rilanna said. "I never have, and I never will. That is, unless my employer screws me over, and I've only been in that situation once before. I don't anticipate doing that again though." There was no threat or menace behind her words as she continued eating.

Reza pulled the sole leaf of purple lettuce from the fork and chewed it slowly, pensively. "And this employer," she said finally. "What happened to him?"

"He posted a bounty of thirty thousand credits for a former employee who had done quite a bit of damage before fleeing the planet. When I brought the former employee in, my employer tried to give me ten thousand credits for the bounty. I tried to negotiate with him, but he wouldn't budge by a credit." Rilanna sighed. "He called in his 'muscle' and they were supposed to take care of me. In the end, I left them all lying on the floor, and I hauled the bounty to the local authorities."

"Fitting retribution," Reza commented. "And is that when you came here?"

"Shortly after," Rilanna said. "I took another job out of Tatooine, but once I completed that one, I came here." She shrugged, and then smiled. "I think it's one of the smartest moves I've made in my whole career."

"As do I," Reza replied frankly. "You are very fortunate to have such a position. It gives you immense privileges, as well as power. Also, I believe the experience and recommendations gained here will help you in any future career you wish to pursue."

"It's a great position, and I get to work with a very skilled and talented station administrator. As far as working elsewhere, I think I'm happy working here, and have no plans to move on for the foreseeable future."

"Flattery will work well in your favour," Reza teased with a subtle smile.

Rilanna smiled. "Well, it wasn't entirely flattery," she said. "And, you are the first friend I remember ever having. And, I have no idea where else I would be able to get Calamari shrimp."

"So, then," Reza said playfully as she sat back in her chair, "you're using me for the shrimp? I had a feeling that was the case."

"Just like you're using me for my superior martial prowess and cleaning out the scum in your station. And, then there's my charming personality." She grinned. "At least we have that out in the open now." She was on the verge of giggles, but managed to keep it in check.

"Yes. Pretensions always do make me uncomfortable." Reza winked at Rilanna as she daintily bit into a ripe piece of red yula. "And now that I am fully relaxed, you can tell me about that hostage situation downbelow last night. I've been expecting your report all morning, but strangely, it never arrived."

Rilanna grinned. "I haven't sent it yet," she said as she fished into one of her pockets for a datapad. "The report's on there. I decided since this was my first crisis on the station as the security head, I'd deliver my report personally."

Reza nodded, accepting Rilanna's explanation, and slid the datapad towards her. "I was surprised when you didn't inform me of the situation. I had to hear it from one of my informants." She glanced up at Rilanna and smiled. "You didn't think you were my only eyes and ears on the station, did you?"

"No," Rilanna said with a smile. "But, I didn't think I should disturb you for what turned out to be a non-issue. After we're done, I want to go down to the infirmary and check on those that were involved. I know a couple were injured, including a Wookiee if you can believe that."

"Why bother?" Reza swatted her hand languidly through the air as if backhanding a pesky insect. "They're from downbelow, are they not? That means their welfare should be no concern of yours, Rilanna. I'm disturbed that they were even allowed to receive medical attention."

"They're still living beings," Rilanna said. "And, the bar was midlevel. I'll have my men run a check on all those in the infirmary and we'll arrest any with records."

"You should have done that last night," Shrezade chided gently. "However, I will wait until I've read your report before I chastise you further."

Rilanna narrowed her eyes. "I am the head of security of this station, am I not? That means I'm in charge of security for the entire station, or do you expect me to be more selective in who I should be protecting, and which laws apply to which inhabitants?"

"Of course I expect you to keep order and prevent bloodshed, but at the same time, I expect you to treat those of the criminal persuasion with little mercy or care." Reza leaned forward with a stern frown. "Save that for those who truly deserve it, Ms. Kir, or I may have to ask you to reassess your priorities."

"So you expect me to check a victim's credentials before I step in," Rilanna said. "You expect me to be selective in which justice I uphold." Rilanna leaned forward. "Do you believe those of the criminal persuasion deserve to die?"

Reza calmly sat back in her chair with a serene smile upon her face that conveyed clearly her answer. "Don't you, Ms. Kir?"

Rilanna set down her fork and pushed her plate away. "I've always believed that the punishment should fit the crime. One punishment for all crime is a very bad idea. Would you be willing to do the killing yourself, Shrezade Anoran? Would you look into a man's eyes as you carried out his sentence, and relieved him of his life?"

"Rilanna Kir... But moments ago, you were cooperating with me on a plan to throw Dargus Kandran out of an airlock." She laughed almost mockingly, then sighed airily. "Don't attempt to appear sanctimonious or self-righteous, not with me, Ms. Kir. You hate that scum just as much as I do, and if the opportunity presented itself to depressurize the entire lower levels and flush those criminals into space, you know you would do it. Would you not?"

"From everything I've heard, Dargus Kandran deserves to be thrown out of an airlock," Rilanna said. "And, while some of the inhabitants of the lower levels deserve to be cast out into the vacuum of space, all of them don't. How many of the bounties you've posted have I brought in dead?"

"None..." Reza admitted with a frown of dissatisfaction. "Unfortunately. Besides, I didn't state that they would be killed, I merely expressed a desire to have such a thing become possible one day. Wishful thinking."

"Just because someone has broken the law, or has walked outside it for a time, it doesn't mean they deserve to die. A man like Dargus Kandran, who has directly caused the deaths of many, deserves to have his light snuffed out. Those men in the bar last night, save the man holding them hostage, do not. And, perhaps those events will help them realize what they were doing before was extremely stupid."

"And I suppose you visiting them will help them along with their rehabilitation?" she asked facetiously. It was difficult for Reza to hide her disappointment in Rilanna. She had such high hopes for her protégé, but all seemed to crumble upon the realization that Rilanna relied far too heavily on the voice of her conscience.

Reza gave a long sigh. "At any rate, I will review your report. If there are any questions, you will be free for consultation, will you not?"

"Of course, I will," Rilanna said. "And, I should be able to add the eyewitness accounts from those recovering in the infirmary." She was silent for a moment, and then shook her head. "So, why are you so upset that I'm not rushing into the infirmary with a vibroblade to slit all their throats?"

"Because it's what you should want to do, Rilanna, whether or not you act on such impulses," Reza replied stiffly. "And I am far from upset. I am merely...disillusioned."

"Disillusioned? Because I'm not some bloodthirsty killer who will gladly go in and slit the throats of men who are unable to defend themselves? You wish me to want to kill anyone who transgresses against any law, no matter how menial? Where is the line that separates us from them? Once you start that sort of killing, where do you stop? Once you've killed off all those who have committed criminal deeds, do you then move on to those who have thought about it? Or maybe that you suspect have thought about it? Pretty soon, you are killing the people you don't like. And, what happens if one day, someone decides they no longer like you?"

"No one does, Ms. Kir," Reza snapped. "And they believe that gives them the right to seek me out and kill me if they could manage it. And that is what you are here to prevent by ridding my station of all those potential assassins." She pushed back her chair abruptly and rose. One hand reached into the inner pocket of her coat and pulled out a small change purse. "I will not have a moral debate with you, Ms. Kir." She pulled out a stack of credits and tossed them beside her plate of uneaten lunch. "Enjoy your meal," she said flatly as she slipped Rilanna's report into her jacket pocket. "It's been a pleasure."

Rilanna watched Shrezade go, and could only shake her head. Once the other woman was gone, Ril rose from her seat and started toward the door. Maybe taking this position wasn't the best idea after all, especially if Shrezade wished everyone who she considered to be scum dead and buried. The part of that that worried Ril was that bounty hunters walked a very fine line, and she'd been forced to employ some unsavoury methods in her days as a bounty hunter. And, Shrezade's declaration that all who are criminals should die struck far too close to home.

---

"A New Aid..."
by Kal'Aran - Jedi Master
and Laedra Vorrel - Jedi Knight
and Quinlan Vos - Jedi Master
and Aurra Sgall - Jedi Padawan

Location: Jedi Temple, Tae'Karada and Tatooine
Date: Niothe 11, 4ABY

***

He approached Laedra from behind, his hands folded inside his crossed cloak's sleeves. He knew his presence had been noticed already. Standing beneath a stone arch he bowed ever so slightly.

"I am in need of a favour from you, Laedra," he said simply.

"Of course, Master Kal'Aran," she replied. She turned to face the man and instinctively bowed to him. "It would be my pleasure to provide you with any aid you need, Master."

"As you know, I am to leave for a short period of time to meet Quinlan Vos. Alas, my Padawan I leave here... I request that you look after her training during my absence," he explained.

"I would be honoured to, Master," Laedra replied. "Do you have any special instructions for me?"

"I am still teaching Aurra to extend her feelings into the Force and how to use it to her aid. I have found her to be quite knowledgeable in theory but not enough in practice. Just keep the physicals please... Oh, and she has not yet begun lightsaber training so let that rest for now. And thank you Laedra..." he said as he bowed respectfully.

"It is truly my pleasure, Master Kal'Aran," she replied. "And I wish you luck on your journey."

Kal'Aran bowed one more time and left, knowing that, as soon as he had to leave, Aurra would be in good hands. He made his way to his Padawan's presence. He found Aurra pointing at a PADD and concentrating to Force pull it towards her and decided to see how well she could manage to do so.

The PADD first moved slightly foward and then finally it moved quite rapidly into her hands. Kal'Aran walked into the room and clapped a couple of times. "Well done Aurra, you seem to be getting better. Just don't train too hard."

"I won't..." Aurra promised. "But I must admit that I am looking forward to the next training and learning more."

Kal'Aran nodded with a smile. "Aurra, I came over to tell you that I need to depart for a short while to talk to Master Vos. Hopefully he will be joining us here. In the meantime I want you to keep your daily practices. Master Laedra Vorrel will look after your training while I am absent."

Aurra nodded. "I hope you return soon and that Master Vos returns with you. Have a safe journey, Master."

Kal'Aran bowed to the girl and left her. He had to make his way back to New Plouton where his Corellian Transport was docked. After a couple of hours he was making his way to Tatooine.

The trip took him a couple of hours since the desert planet was not too far off and in lightspeed it was a fairly easy and fast journey. He decided to land at Mos Eisley Spaceport which was nearer to Quinlan's location.

Once settled in he paid the Spaceport attendant for the Docking Bay he landed at and rented a landspeeder to travel. He still had a couple more hours of travel to get to Quinlan and he had to cross the Dune Sea where Sandpeople used to raid the passing travelers.

He made his way fast. As expected the Sandpeople saw him passing and shot a couple of shots at him but it seemed they were in fewer number since only a couple of shots were fired and none actually hit the speeder.

Soon enough he got to the end of the Dune Sea and near the cavern entrance where Quinlan resided. He left the speeder at the cavern entrance and made his way inside on foot. He found Quinlan who had come outside.

"I knew I had felt a familiar presence!" Quinlan said as he greeted his old friend cheerfully. "It is good to see you, old friend!"

"It is good to see you too!" Kal'Aran replied. "Have you heard the news? The Empire has fallen. Palpatine is dead..." he said.

"I have heard, yes... The end of Palpatine's dark days. And yet one must wonder who will be the next one in search for power trying to succeed in his place..." Quinlan said.

"A new Jedi Order is being formed so that we rise as keepers of the peace once more..." Kal'Aran explained to his friend's surprise. "We found a Temple where the Force is strong. Currently we are few but soon our numbers should rise. Already are being taught two new Padawans, one of them my own. We could use your help to set things right Quinlan..."

"Alisson? I thought she had taken the trials?!"

"No, not Alisson. A new Padawan. A young girl named Aurra Sgall who used to be Yandoor Lugoth's Padawan before his death," Kal'Aran explained. "And there are others. Others who have become Jedi or are making that path. But there are little who know and follow the old Jedi Code of conduct. As I said, we could use your aid Quinlan..."

"I have longed for the day when the Jedi would arise as keepers of peace. But with Palpatine's Jedi hunt things were difficult..." he said. "Yes, I will go with you to Chimaeria and this new Jedi Order shall become great. Let us depart then..." Quinlan smiled.

A couple hours later they left back towards Mos Eisley before the sun set down, not finding any Sandpeople this time. Once in the vile starport, Kal'Aran delivered the speeder and both went to the docking bay where Kal'Aran's ship was docked and left back to Chimaeria, with the hope of new better days to come.

---

"New Learnings"
By: Laedra Vorrel - Jedi Knight
and Aurra Sgall - Jedi Padawan

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Niothe 11 - 4 ABY

***

The young girl made her way to a most beautiful room naturally lit by an open skydome. At the center was a fountain made of stone where fresh water arose. Aurra approached the fountain and touched the water. It was rather cold even though the climate was hot and it was a hot day.

Aurra sighed and turned around. As she did she saw Master Laedra Vorrel outside and made her way towards her, as she remembered what Master Kal'Aran had said about Laedra tutoring her until he returned.

"Master Vorrel!" she called out. "Master Vorrel, I was told you would oversee and conduct my training until Master Kal'Aran returned..." she said hoping to take on her next training.

Laedra shifted around towards the source of the enthusiastic summoning. She couldn't help but smile as Aurra hurried towards her expectantly. Laedra bowed to the young girl as she halted before her. "Young Aurra Sgall... I am so pleased to have this opportunity, especially with such an astute pupil as you."

Aurra smiled and bowed respectfully to the Jedi woman in front of her. "I thank you for your compliments but I know I have much to learn. I have just begun to learn how to feel objects and use the Force to have an influence over them..." she said eagerly with a small tilt of the head. "When will class be today?"

"Well...anytime you wish, Padawan. I believe Liam Zaneth and Kael Selrid have gone on an outing in the forest for the entire morning."

"I must admit I am eager to train, so if you have the time now perhaps we could start," the girl suggested.

"Well, then," Laedra said as she slipped her arms into her sleeves, "I think now would be the perfect time. I'm free for the morning and I can't think of a better way to spend it than training such a promising, young Padawan such as you, Aurra Sgall." She smiled warmly at the girl. "Master Kal'Aran gave me explicit instructions. We are to do some physical training today. Is there anything in particular you wanted to focus on?"

"Not particularly..." the girl admitted. "I have been doing a couple of courses and some Force training, mainly feeling things. I was hoping to learn from your experience..."

"Well, I must admit, Aurra Sgall, I am not the best fighter. That's Liam Zaneth's area of expertise," Laedra said. "But I'm certain if you need practice with your Force abilities, I would be able to help you with that." She placed her hand lightly upon the girl's back. "Come. We shall find a nice quiet place nearby and we can perhaps meditate and teach you a few tricks. While we're doing that, however, I would like you to tell me something, Aurra Sgall. I would like you to tell me why you want to become a Jedi."

Aurra followed Laedra and thought about the question she had posed. Truth was she had never thought much about it. "Why I became a Jedi? When I was young I was kidnapped to become a slave, as so many of my race are as well. My parents tried to rescue me but died trying. I was found and rescued from the pirates by Master Lugoth..." She stopped and looked to the ground. "After that I began training in the Jedi ways. Something I learned from Master Yandoor Lugoth: it was that everyone should live their lives freely until proven that for specific reasons they should be detained..."

Aurra looked at Laedra. "I want to be a Jedi because the Jedi ways are pure in reason and they do not have the mischievous and self-centered thoughts you can see in others. It may sound harsh, but our life is more well balanced and moral. Perhaps one day the Jedi can offer some of that balance to others and ensure the safety and peace throughout the Galaxy once more. I would like to be a part of that..."

Laedra couldn't suppress the pleased smile that formed upon her lips. She nodded her approval and admiration of the girl and only hoped that other Padawans who passed through the Temple had as noble ideals as Aurra. "We shall have peace again, Padawan. Especially if all are as optimistic and determined as you are."

Laedra found a cool, shaded spot within the forest and settled to the ground. "I think all the struggles you've encountered in your short life have been beneficial, Aurra Sgall, although it pains me that you have had to suffer as you did. I truly am sorry for that."

"So am I... But I must overcome my fears and if I let it all go now I would only prove not to honour what Master Lugoth saw in me and his dedicated time," she said. She decided to change the subject, for her own sake. "So, what am I to do?" she asked.

As Aurra settled to the ground, Laedra shifted closer to the girl and held out her open hands towards her. "Take them. We're going to do a concentration exercise. My master used the same with me. When I was a Padawan, I got distracted quite easily, so Master Ina taught me this to help me focus." When Aurra's hands were placed in hers, Laedra bowed her head and spoke softly and soothingly. "Now... close your eyes. Close your eyes...and think about nothing. Just listen Aurra. What do you hear?"

Aurra closed her eyes and touched Laedra's hands. She breathed in and listened to her words. "I hear a very small humming... I hear my own heartbeat and I can feel yours too... I hear the life around us, nearby trees and the winds..." she said as she heard around not knowing what it was she was supposed to hear.

"That humming," Laedra said in a gentle, unimposing whisper. "Focus on that. I want you to block everything else out, and amplify that sound in your mind."

Aurra breathed in gently and focused more intensely now. She excluded everything around her except that small humming. "I hear it better now. It sounds as a river underground, only I can tell it's not water..."

"Well...it is not water, but you can think of it as a river - one vast river, flowing through every being, every entity, even the trees surrounding us." Laedra smiled at the serene expression on Aurra's face. "What you are hearing, and feeling, Aurra, is the Force. It's all around you. You may not be able to run it through your fingers like water, but if you open your mind and focus your senses, you can feel it, as you are now, Aurra Sgall."

Aurra opened her eyes and looked at Laedra. "But how do I direct it to aid me? I mean, I know how to use the Force to pull or push something but how do I direct it towards my own self? To Force jump for instance?"

"Just like the river that flows through the forest, the Force flows through you, Aurra. When you push or pull an object, do you not feel the Force flowing to your fingertips? Can you not sense it vibrating, resonating within you?" Laedra smiled gently. "Open your eyes and...move that rock over there," she said as she gestured to a medium sized, gray stone. "But when you do so, I want you to focus on how it feels when you retrieve the stone. For, the only way to manipulate the Force is to fully understand its nuances, its specific characteristics. Go ahead, young Padawan. Try it."

Aurra extended her hand to the rock remembering what Laedra had just said and what she had learned from Master Kal'Aran. "Only different in the mind..." she told herself. She concentrated and opened her mind. She could feel the Force in a more intense way now due to Laedra's exercise. She felt it flowing. The rock began to nudge and Aurra felt it as she felt her own self. "I can feel it... Binding to me through the Force..." she said as the rock now stood a couple of feet above the ground.

"Very good... The Force may be invisible, intangible...but it can be shaped and bent to your will. A Jedi and the Force act in a sort of symbiosis, one aiding the other. It pervades your entire body, and if you wish to jump high above the trees, Aurra, then redirect the course of that river within you. Reroute it to your feet and your legs; feel it collecting there, then, just as you pulled that rock towards you, push yourself off of the ground and soar, Padawan."

Aurra listened and did as Master Vorrel told her to do. She set the rock down slowly and concentrated in recoursing the Force to herself in the same way and tried to jump over the rock. To her own surprise the leap was a lot higher than she hoped for and she felt herself being impulsed into the air as if she was almost weightless. As she somersaulted, she turned around to face Laedra with a smile. "Your exercise has made things much more clearer Master Vorrel..."

Laedra stood up and attempted not to appear as excited as she felt. She had never trained a student before to perform such a feat, not even Kael, and seeing that Aurra was actually benefiting from her teachings gave her the urge to wrap her arms around the girl and cheer triumphantly. Instead, she simply nodded her approval and smiled. "I'm glad I could be of assistance, but you are a very adept student, Aurra. The success was partially your own. Now, it may take time to properly hone such a technique, but that comes through practice and patience."

Aurra nodded. "It is I who thank you, Master Vorrel. I can only aspire to learn all the knowledge you have to offer. I could have never done it without your aid and guidance..." She walked to Laedra's side. "Master Kal'Aran has spoken to me of Ilum. He wants to take me there sometime soon to find myself and to get the crystals to build my own lightsaber... What did you find in Ilum Master Vorrel?" she asked, taking it for granted that all Padawans went to Ilum.

Laedra smiled wistfully and felt the warmth of nostalgia fill her. "It was a long time ago, Padawan." She placed a hand on Aurra's back and strolled along leisurely with her. "Yes, I found the crystal for my lightsaber - mostly because I adored the colour," she confided with a wink. "But it is not merely a journey towards finding the essential materials for your weapon. When I visited Ilum, I found myself as you said, Aurra Sgall. My Master chose it as the grounds for my Trials. It was where I became a Jedi Knight. So in a sense, I found my purpose in life there."

"I see..." Aurra nodded. She wondered what sort of visions she would see there. She recalled hearing Master Lugoth saying that in Ilum one would find visions of past life and of a possible future. She wondered also about the other Padawans. She looked at Laedra as they walked. "Master Laedra, how come I never see the other Padawans around? I thought there were more Padawans than Masters here at the Jedi Temple..."

Laedra nodded grimly and pulled Aurra aside. "There are three Padawans, only one of whom is training right now. The subject is a delicate one...but the other two fled for personal reasons. I do not know if they will be returning. However, you and Kael are still here, and we could not ask for better Padawans. The Force was definitely with us when you arrived Aurra, and Kael as well."

Aurra had to blush a bit. Laedra did not seem to spare her the compliments. She did not know what to think on those who had left the Jedi Temple and gave up on the Jedi ways, so she decided not to make any comments and just nodded with a smile. "I am rather hungry and will go eat something. Would you care for me to prepare you something too?"

"Perhaps... Why don't you prepare a meal of your choosing, and I will join you in a half hour." Laedra placed her hand upon Aurra's shoulder and said warmly, "You've done well today, Padawan. I may not be your Master, but I am proud of you." She bowed to the young girl, who returned the gesture with the same excited smile she always wore, then made her way back to the Temple.

Laedra laughed and shook her head in disbelief. Before the Temple, she'd never had a hand in training young Jedi hopefuls, but she was quickly discovering she had a knack for the teaching profession. With confident, light-hearted strides, Laedra started back for the Temple, but not before she looked up towards the heavens and silently thanked her Master Ina for his teachings, which she was drawing from now to train Kael and Aurra, and for inspiring her - even though she hadn't realized it before - to become the Jedi she was today.

---

"So Dangerous, Part 1"
By: Kael Selrid
Laedra Vorrel
Liam Zaneth

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Niothe 11, 4 ABY

***

Kael Selrid held the glowing blade of the lightsaber out in front of him. He moved on the balls of his feet, easily and swiftly. The hum of the remote sounded to his left and he adjusted slightly. He allowed his senses to reach out, to touch the remote as it slid through the air around behind him. A moment before it did, he sensed the device firing. He adjusted his stance and slid the weapon back, intercepting the small blaster bolt as it hit. But, the remote wasn't finished yet, as it rapidly fired off another series of blasts. His blade moved, effortlessly absorbing each blast.

The audible click indicating that the device had reached the end of the period designated for the workout sounded, and Kael shut down the lightsaber. He reached up and pulled the blindfold from his eyes and tossed it to the bench behind him. With a slow sigh, he attached the lightsaber to his belt and moved to retrieve a towel thrown over the back of one of the chairs.

"And you said he's been training for but a week?" Laedra peered down at Kael from the balcony overlooking the training room. She glanced sideways at Liam and smiled. "Impressive, and I don't just mean Kael, Liam. You've come a long way with him."

"Thank you," Liam said with a smile. "Since Nieme and Dani left, he's really dedicated himself to training. I'd say he's been doing about four hours of remote drills each day. It shows too." He glanced at her. "He's made it easy, though I believe I should also thank you for the guidance you've given me. If it weren't for you, I do not believe I would be as focused in my teaching."

Laedra looked away and grinned. "I merely helped build up your confidence, nothing more. I can hardly take any credit for how well Kael is doing. I only hope when I take over his tutelage, I can justly emulate the progress you've made with him."

"If you ever need my help," Liam said with a gentle smile, "I gladly offer it. Though, I think you'll do fine with him. And, I do thank you, and my confidence is definitely built. I do think it's time for you to take over teaching him though. When you are ready, we can go talk to him."

"I think as soon as possible is best. But I have been thinking, Liam," Laedra added as she leaned back against the banister and faced him. "I know it is normally one Master and one Padawan...but perhaps, since there really is only one trainable student within the Temple, that you and I could take up his training together - a joint effort."

Liam thought about it for a moment, and then nodded. "I like the idea," he said. "And, it will provide more variety to his training. I think we should try it to see how well it works. At least until we have more students here in the Temple. Should we go down before he gets too far away?"

An almost sly grin tugged at Laedra's lips as she glanced back down at Kael completing his cool down stretches. "No," she said thoughtfully. "I would like to begin his training with a test." She turned slowly and leaned forward with her arms crossed atop the banister. "His mind and senses should always be open to the Force. If we give him a gentle nudge, and if you have been training him properly, he will sense us here." Her eyes returned to Liam as she asked, "Do you think he is prepared for such a challenge?"

Liam smiled. "I know he's up for the challenge."

"Very well, Liam." Laedra focused her gaze on Kael, who was making his way towards to large doors of the training area. She gathered the Force from the air around her and directed it at Kael, nothing stronger than what would amount to a gentle breeze, but hopefully enough to invoke a response in him.

Liam smiled as across the room Kael suddenly stopped. His hand went to his belt where his lightsaber rested. It appeared that he concentrated for a moment, then the hand dropped to his side and he turned. After another moment of his eyes glancing around the room, he shifted them upwards and smiled. "Good afternoon Master Liam and Master Laedra."

Laedra nodded her greeting to Kael, then looked to Liam. "A quick study." She straightened up and started for the stairwell. "Or perhaps a talented teacher."

Liam laughed softly and followed Laedra toward the stairs. "Perhaps a bit of both," he said with a grin. "And, I look forward to seeing what kind of progress we can make together with his studies."

"Much, I expect. You have the superior fighting skills, and I am a repository of lore." Laedra glanced back at Liam and grinned. "We compliment each other's skills. A perfect partnership, I say."

"Quite perfect," Liam said, brushing his hand against her back as he drew up behind her. They started down the stairs together as Kael moved to the foot of the stairs to wait for them. "By the looks of it, he's going to make a fine Jedi Knight."

"As will you, Liam, after you've taken your Trials." Laedra furtively rubbed the back of her hand gently against Liam's side. "But that day is coming soon, Liam. As far as I'm concerned, you've far surpassed the level of a Jedi Knight, but the Trials will make it more official."

Liam smiled. "I am looking forward to that day," he said. He glanced down at Kael, and then moved a half-step away from Laedra. He liked their nearness, the sense of comfort and contentment he felt when they were close. "And, despite my lack of official title, I feel like a Jedi Knight."

"You've performed the duties of one well as far as I've witnessed. And I believe Kael can learn much from you, that is why I wish to have you aid me in his training." Laedra conversed quietly with Liam until they reached the bottom of the stairs and Kael bowed respectfully to them. "Padawan Selrid. Your training session today impressed me much. Congratulations."

"My thanks, Master Laedra," Kael said. "I still find myself...awed by what I can feel through the Force, what I can see. With the blindfold on, when I was tracking the remote, it was like my eyes were as open as they are now. I never realized that...that it would be like this."

"I'm glad you've become enlightened, Kael Selrid. You've grasped the basic concepts so well and so quickly." She smiled at Liam and added, "You were lucky to find such a talented, dedicated teacher."

Kael smiled. "I am lucky he found me..." His features clouded slightly, but he nodded and went on. "And, that Nieme convinced me to come here to be a Jedi. Last night, Master Jae Dyn said it would be alright if I joined her the next time she visited Nieme and Dani...if that's alright with my master."

Laedra was in the process of making a reply, but decided it best to inform Kael of the new arrangement before taking on the role of his Master. "Liam? I don't see any harm in that, do you?"

"I don't think so either," Liam said. "I know the situation with Nieme has weighed heavily on your mind, and I know seeing her again will help you find some...some kind of closure and resolution to what happened. And, hopefully you can reconcile with them. However, there is another matter we need to discuss. As a Jedi, I am very qualified and have all the skills and training necessary to serve as your teacher. However, I never completed my training as a Padawan. So, Laedra and I have come to a decision. She will take on the duties as your teacher, and I will assist her in that. We feel that with our own unique sets of talents, the two of us, teaching in tandem, will be able to provide you with a much more rounded training regimen."

"You are very talented, from what I have seen," Laedra added, picking up where Liam left off. "So, we are doing what we think is best for your future. We know changing masters can be a very awkward and difficult transition for a Padawan, but with Liam and I working together, we feel it will not impinge on your progress at all."

Kael smiled. "I look forward to learning whatever you can teach me. I only hope that I can continue to make you proud of my progress."

"I am here merely to give you the tools necessary to become a Jedi, Kael," Laedra said. "Don't strive to impress me, or perform in order to seek my approval. Do this for yourself, Kael Selrid, or else you will fail. I will push you, as will Liam. If you truly do not want to succeed for yourself, we will know through your failure and will have no choice but to excuse ourselves from training you." Laedra was affected herself by the harshness of her words, but they were attempting to rebuild the Jedi Order, and Kael had to succeed if they were too. "While in Thanatos visiting Nieme, Kael Selrid, I want you to resolve the matter with her, then come back here focused and prepared to work hard. Your thoughts are plagued by her absence - that is quite obvious, and although you have progressed very well, it his hindering your training."

Kael nodded. "It will be difficult to do so, Master Laedra," he said. "But, I shall. I love her, and always will, but the problems need to be dealt with and put behind me. When I am there, the matter will be resolved."

"I should hope so, Padawan Kael Selrid. That you were allowed to engage in a relationship with Nieme to begin with was leniency and caused distraction enough," Laedra stated frankly. "Now, however, you are training under my tutelage, as well as Liam's, and from now on, you will be forbidden from engaging in a romantic liaison with anyone. Your training must be of the highest priority now, Kael Selrid, and you cannot afford distractions like that again."

Kael held back the sharp words that popped into his mind, and did everything he could to control his growing anger. "I understand, Master Laedra," he said, his words coming out clipped. "I have dedicated my life to the Jedi Order, and I intend to carry through with what I have started. I have thoroughly read through the information Master Liam has given me, and I understand what is expected of me as a Padawan Learner, and will abide that code to the letter."

"I understand, Kael, but sometimes a Padawan finds abiding by those rules and principles difficult. For now, though, I will give you the benefit of the doubt and trust that Liam's previous training has been enough to quell your rebellious tendencies." Laedra lightened the mood with a bland smile and decided a change of topic was in order. "At any rate, Kael, I am glad to see you have adopted the formal Jedi attire. It suits you. As for your hair, it will be long enough in time to braid. For now, it is acceptable."

"Thank you," Kael said. "If I had known I would be travelling this path, I would have let it start growing out awhile ago." He let out a breath he'd been holding, glad that the sudden barrage was over. "I didn't realize these clothes would be so comfortable until I put them on. They also provide me with a wide range of movement. It's good that they won't hinder me during training." He smiled. "What was it like walking through the city, where everyone could see you? Could they see that the Jedi were back?"

"I didn't notice anything out of the ordinary," Laedra replied. "Perhaps a few wary glances, much indifference. I think the Jedi have been in hiding for so long, no one really recognized who we were. It's going to take some time before our identities are firmly re-established into society. At least we are no longer being hunted."

Liam nodded. "At least not by the Empire," he said. "But, I imagine there are still some out there who would like to see our return stopped. We must still be wary, but we are no longer going to cower in the corner."

Kael glanced between the two teachers. "Will you be going off-planet soon to look for others?"

"We have not discussed that yet," Laedra answered. "I do not believe we have enough Masters to train whoever we would find on such a quest."

"What about others like you," Kael asked. "What about others who managed to hide through the Empire and the Jedi Purge? Do you think there are any? Or do you think it's just us here? Maybe there's a way we could get word to other planets, and the others -- if there are others -- could come here."

Laedra found humour in Kael's enthusiasm and attempted to calm him with a gentle hand upon his shoulder. "Master Kal'Aran has recently sought out another Jedi Master he is acquainted with, as well as a former student. I am not certain if they've agreed to join us here, but it is a start, I believe. We will continue to search on planet, but I'm afraid for now, we have not the time or resources to go venturing beyond Tae'Karada."

Kael nodded. "That does make sense," he said. "I should probably go do my meditation after my workout. If you have nothing more for me..."

Laedra once again looked to Liam first before answering, but shook her head at any rate. "Nothing. Just don't forget to meet us here after lunch for your training session."

"I will be prompt," Kael said, and then, after offering them a bow, turned and exited the room toward his own bedroom.

Once he was gone, Liam smiled. "You nearly pushed him over the edge there," he said. "I don't think the boy is used to being pushed quite that way, and he does not yet have full mastery over his emotions. Digging too deeply into that wound is likely to cause it to fester."

"He will need to overcome it if he's to be at all successful, Liam. He will not be coddled, not while I'm here. Kael is to face much greater tests in the future, and if he is unable to withstand some minor criticism, then he will fail, as I have said."

Liam turned to face her. "He loves Nieme," he told her. "And, nothing any code or teaching can say will take that away from him. He lost the girl and has not yet healed. If you push his emotions for that relationship too far too soon, we'll lose him. Push him in other areas, but don't push there...not yet. I don't want him coddled, but I don't want him deliberately pressured in his weak points. At least not until he's got greater control of his emotions. It's not minor criticism to him, Lae. She was his world, and he's trying to adjust to the fact that his world is gone. I'm not saying to be easy on him, or to let him just walk through this unchallenged. But, it's too soon to test that wound."

"And that wound would not have been placed there if you and Jae Dyn had been following the Code to begin with," Laedra countered. "Becoming a Jedi must be his life, Liam, his world, not Nieme. He must realize that, no matter how difficult it is to swallow. I will push him no farther than I did today, but I wanted to make it blatantly clear to him that he must move on if he is serious about becoming a Jedi."

"So it's my fault," Liam said calmly. He moved away from Laedra and further into the room. He picked up the remote Kael had been working with and activated it, along with three others. He set them spinning around him in a dizzying display as he removed his lightsaber from his belt. Just as the first started targeting and fired, he ignited his blade, and swept it into the path of the bolt, and proceeded to repel all the bolts from each of the remotes. As he did, he kept his eyes on Laedra. "Since those girls left, Kael has been dedicating his life to this Temple. He misses Nieme, he still loves her, but he continues on. He can sense the Force, and can complete this drill with a single remote. All of that in a week. It is clear to him that he must move on. He knows that perfectly clear, and has accepted that his life is with the Jedi and not with Nieme. He has moved on Laedra. Let him move on and don't belabour the point with him." He shifted his blade, and sent a blaster bolt back at each of the remotes, shutting them down. In a fluid motion, his lightsaber was back on his belt and he was striding toward the far side of the room.

Laedra nodded her head slowly while keeping the shame of her admonishment at the hands of Liam far from her features. "Of course, Liam," she said stiffly. "You are his Master, after all. I am new here and apparently know nothing of how to be a teacher to a student such as Kael. It is obvious you have a handle on his training and from now on, I shall keep myself scarce when dealing with the boy." Laedra bowed to Liam and strode towards the large double-doors, far more briskly than she intended.

Liam stopped and turned around. "Wait a minute," he said. "We're in this together. We just agreed on that, and that's what we just told him. I'm not trying to say I'm any better at this than you are. I just have a bad feeling about pressing the issue about Kael's relationship with Nieme. He was ready to snap, and he would have if you'd pushed him any further." He stepped closer to her. "Kael's had a very dark, violent past. If we push him to the breaking point, it's very likely he'll draw on his darkness. Anger and hate dominated his life, and if we push him too hard where he's emotionally insecure, he'll more than likely revert. I think it would be best for us to leave the matter of his relationship with Nieme alone, and let him resolve it in his own way. We can watch his progress, and make sure that he does. But, I don't want to lose him to darkness, Lae. I don't want to try to have to pull him out, or kill him if we can't."

Laedra pressed her hand to the frame of the door and sighed deeply. "I am not a fool, Liam. I may not have been close to very many people in my life, but I do know human emotion. I could tell he was nearing his brink and ready to lash out. Why do you think I digressed?" She shifted around to face Liam and attempted to keep as much disappointment from her features as she could. "You still don't trust me, do you? You don't trust my ability as a trainer, and you don't trust me to know how far to go when dealing with Kael. If you want to do this together, fine, but you need to have at least a little faith in me."

Liam smiled and looked away. "I made you feel bad, didn't I? Because of the things I said, because of how I acted." He looked back at her. "Kael doesn't know that you know when to stop, or to not go too far. Kael only knows that one minute you were complimenting his progress, and the next you were berating him for a past relationship. I trust you with my life and my heart, but when you step into the role of the Jedi Master, you have a very daunting presence."

"How else am I to gain his respect if I do not assert my authority?" Laedra shrugged and moved past Liam slowly. "And yes," she called back, "you made me feel horrible. I was beginning to think Yelara and Jae Dyn's initial opinion of me was indeed correct, and that you were beginning to share it."

Liam followed her. "They were most definitely wrong, and I certainly don't believe that about you," he said. "And, I do apologize for making you feel horrible. It wasn't my intention." Once he was close enough again, he continued softly. "You don't need to assert your authority, Lae. He knows you're a Jedi Master, and respects you. Think about when we were talking with Raxis L'Ygr. You have a strong presence, and whatever you say rings with authority without you having to assert anything. Know inside you're in charge, and it will reflect outside. And, he'll know that as well. You're a beautiful and commanding woman, and you don't even need to try to be. It's a part of who you are."

Laedra slowed to a halt and brought her arms up around herself. "You've been at this far longer than I have, Liam. I don't know how to be a Master yet. My Master Ina was unforgiving and strict... I learned everything I know through his example, including how a Jedi Master behaves. I was trying to do things as he did them." Laedra laughed softly and turned to face Liam. "Frankly, I'm not him, and I just ended up doing everything wrong. Kael didn't deserve that from me. It's obvious he is fragile right now and I was being insensitive. I just... I thought that's what I was supposed to do, Liam."

With a thought, Liam closed the door behind them. Once they had privacy, he slipped his arms around her and gazed into her eyes. "You were doing what you thought was right," he said. "I thought the same thing when I was raiding Imperial bases and killing everyone I found. You're a good person, and a strong Jedi. I think the best advice I can give, if you want it, is to teach as you would like to be taught." Liam grinned. "Of course, you can always model your style after me, and then you're working with perfection." His eyes glittered with true affection. "I'm here with you, Lae. We're going to make this work, and we'll do it together."

Laedra grinned and looked down, away from Liam's piercing gaze. "You're very good at building up one's confidence, Liam." She met his gaze finally and added with a laugh, "And it helps that you're absolutely charming." Laedra brought her hand to Liam's cheek and cradled it delicately. "Did you mean it?" she asked softly. "You trust me with your heart?" She looked down bashfully and said quickly, "I hadn't realized I had it. I--I seem to be oblivious to many things, as it were."

Liam brushed his lips against hers. "Yes, you have my heart," he said. "I don't think I'd fully realized yet either, but yes. I care for you very much, Lae. I don't think it's oblivious so much as it's so many new things that you're not used to and don't know what they are. I think there is a difference. If a blind man suddenly finds his sight restored, how is he to know red from blue?" He grinned, and then laughed softly. "And, before you came here you'd had very little contact with others, and hadn't been given the chance to feel anything for others...at least not like this. Or have them feeling for you."

"And I'm glad, Liam, that you're the one teaching me all these new and foreign things." Laedra kissed him upon the cheek. "Like this," she whispered. She kissed him again, but upon the lips. "Like that." Her eyes fixed upon his as her hand pressed firmly upon his chest. "And many more things I've yet to learn, but would like more than anything for you to teach me...when the time comes."

"When the time comes," Liam said softly as he brushed his lips against hers, letting them linger there, and then kissed her again more firmly.

Laedra whimpered quietly and returned Liam's kiss with amateurish over-enthusiasm, pressing so roughly that her lips grew numb. She brought her arms up around Liam's neck and closed the scant distance between their bodies. She'd never experienced blind lust before, but she had a feeling she was no longer a stranger to it.

Liam could feel his body reacting to their embrace and he tried to will his heart to slow its rapid pounding. Finally he pulled away, but kept hold of her hands. "Oh, as much as I like that, we shouldn't do anymore. Or else, we'll be doing things that...that wouldn't be right in a training room."

Laedra nodded her head quickly and felt her chest rising and falling rapidly. With a laugh, she rested her head against his shoulder. "This is all so strange to me. I've never experienced such...sensations, yet my body reacts as if it's something that's just been reawakened in me after a long slumber. But I've never felt this way before towards anyone. So strange..."

Liam nodded. "The feelings are very powerful," he said. "Strange, but wonderful." He laughed. "And so dangerous."

"I understand," Laedra whispered sullenly, knowing precisely where the danger in their actions laid. She stepped back and composed her rampant emotions before bowing to Liam again. "I'll see you again during Kael's training session. Good day, Liam." Laedra turned and fled again, escaping before they could exceed the bounds of propriety.

Liam watched after Laedra for a long several minutes, not moving. With a ragged sigh, he turned and ventured off into the Temple to seek out Yel and Kallia. Though, he realized that there was a strong part of him that wished Laedra could be there too.

---

"So Dangerous, Part 2"
By: Kael Selrid
Laedra Vorrel
Liam Zaneth

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Niothe 11, 4 ABY

***

Kael waited in the training room, his lightsaber in hand as he examined the hilt. It was an intricate weapon, and so very dangerous. He was learning to control it though. His control was definitely improving. He smiled at the thought, and then held his hand outward with the lightsaber resting in it. He concentrated on it, trying to make the device float in his hand. It jiggled slightly, but stayed where it was. He was about to start again, when a sound behind him caught his attention.

"Good. You're early." Laedra strode into the training area much relaxed after an aggressive meditation session, one much needed after her encounter with Liam. "Have you warmed up yet?"

Kael turned and bowed to Laedra. "Yes," he said. "I have already warmed up. I was trying to lift my lightsaber from my hand, but...but I couldn't do it yet. I got it to move a little, but that's all."

Laedra gave a nod as if his lack of success was to be expected. "Have a seat at the centre of the circle. We won't be doing any physical training today. I want to concentrate on honing your mental abilities."

Kael nodded and moved to the centre of the circle as directed and sat down. He assumed the comfortable, meditative position Liam had taught him. "I am ready Master Laedra."

"Before we begin," she said as she moved towards him, "I wish to apologize. I was too harsh on you this morning and I shouldn't have been. I understand the matter of this...Nieme is a delicate one. I should not have pushed so hard."

Kael nodded. "It's difficult," he said. "I still love her very much, and I worry about her. But, she and Dani are happy together, and I'm happy for them. I know without Nieme here, I can become a better Jedi Knight because I can focus myself more. But, I still miss her." He looked up into Laedra's eyes. "I am going to be a Jedi Knight, and I will not let my feelings or relationship with Nieme interfere with that."

Laedra settled down, cross-legged, before Kael. "I am glad you are able to come out of such an obstacle so optimistic about the future. Now," she said as she reached her hands out towards Kael, "let me teach you to become a Jedi Knight, Padawan Selrid."

Kael nodded, and placed his hands in Laedra's open palms. "I am ready," he said softly. "I am ready to become a Jedi Knight."

"Then close your eyes." Laedra studied his face as his lids fell over brown eyes displaying determination and resolve, although in them was still the pain of loss. That would never leave those brown pools, but at least she could teach him to numb himself to the despair. "What are you thinking?"

"Thinking...about the training," Kael said. "That I want to be...to be a good Jedi. To be worthy. And, trying not to be afraid of failing."

"Then you are not concentrating at all," Laedra said plainly. "Concentrate."

Kael smiled. "I didn't know you wanted me to concentrate," he said, and then cleared his mind to focus on his breathing. He opened his senses and concentrated on the Force, letting himself go free within his mind as Liam had been teaching him.

"I needn't tell you to concentrate, Kael. A Jedi must always have focus and always be open to the Force." Laedra kept her eyes fixed upon Kael's face, watching his facial expression. "You were trying to move that lightsaber earlier, but you failed. Do you know why?"

"I don't," Kael said. "Though, perhaps I was thinking of other things, not focused."

"A good assumption. You failed because you let your emotions steer your thoughts away from the task at hand." Laedra smiled gently and added, "You failed because you allowed yourself to feel too much."

Kael nodded slowly. "I did," he whispered.

"You're human; it's only natural. But as a Jedi, you can suppress your emotions if you choose and focus only on the Force. Even the most well-trained Jedi, however, sometimes fail to do that." Laedra let her gaze falter to her hands for a moment, knowing she herself had succumbed to just what she spoke of from time to time. "What are you feeling now, Kael?"

"Nothing," he said. "My mind and emotions are clear."

Laedra nodded and said nothing. Instead, she battered gently the mental shields imposed on Kael's mind through years of being oblivious to his abilities, leading to their latency and confinement within the prison of his mind. "What are you feeling now?"

"Slightly anxious," Kael said. "And...and like there's a thought below the surface, but I can't put my finger on it." He reasserted his calm, but still felt a slight pressure in his mind, gentle and barely noticeable. "I am feeling...a pressure..."

Laedra intensified the mental intrusion and used the Force to pry at his shields. "What are you doing to stop it? Can you stop it?"

Kael tried to identify the source of the pressure, concentrating all his will there. It was as if someone were pressing their fingers into his mind. He focused his thoughts on pushing the fingers back. Weakly, the intrusion was pushed back, though the strength of his defense was not enough to stop a concerted effort. But, progress was definitely being made.

Laedra smiled slightly, but she wasn't about to ease up. She wanted to take him to the brink, make him desperate and anxious to the point of fear and anger. Then, would be the true test. Gently, she pushed farther into his mind, but stayed clear of his deepest thoughts that were no business of hers to invade. "Don't let your emotions take control, Kael. You will fail if you do. Push them away and focus on what you have to do. Focus."

"I am," Kael whispered as he tried to focus on pushing away the pressure. Every time he pushed one away, more appeared seeking to delve deeper into his mind. He re-doubled his focus and tried pushing away two at a time. It worked. Sweat broke out across his forehead as he continued defending himself. Finally, he had another thought. Within his mind, he formed a bubble. And, then, he began expanding it outward, pushing back all of the intrusive pressure seeking the core of his mind.

"Good," Laedra said softly as she increased her efforts. "Keep me out, Kael. Don't leave an opening for me to get in."

Kael nodded as he maintained his focus. "No openings," he said, his voice sounding surprisingly calm in his ears.

"Where are your emotions, Kael? Don't be afraid to acknowledge them, but keep them separated from what you're doing." Laedra gave another forceful push and attempted to find a weakness in his defenses. "Find them, but ignore them."

Kael winced under her assault, but kept his defenses in place. "They are here, but away. I can feel them but I am not acting on them." He reached out to the Force, and pulled in more strength to keep his defense in place.

"I know. Now, use that barrier you've built up. That is what you shall use from now on to conceal your emotions. You will wrap them up within a tiny ball and keep them tethered to the farthest reaches of your mind. But first, you must build up that shield." Laedra sent a burst of Force energy, assailing the bubble within Kael's mind and trying to weaken it. "It's fluctuating, Kael. Reinforce it before I find a way in."

Kael searched for a way to reinforce the shield he'd made, drawing on more from within himself to repel Laedra's attack. He felt panic rising within himself and quickly quashed it. Drawing deep within himself, he forced the shield back into place. He felt his strength waning, and knew he had to hurry before she tore down his defenses, leaving his mind wide open to her.

"You're trying to repel me, Kael," Laedra said calmly. "Don't. Absorb what I'm giving you. Make it a part of your shield. I'm far stronger than you and fighting me will get you nowhere."

Kael very nearly berated himself her words and his realization. It was like the Ephra Katari fighting style he'd learned several years ago: taking your opponent's energy and using it for your own needs. And, she was assaulting him with the Force...Force he could use. He adjusted his mental stance to absorb what she was feeding him, and used that to strengthen his own defense. He wanted to smile, but kept the display of victory from showing.

Laedra made no sound or sign of approval, except for the gentle smile she allowed to fix itself upon her face. The sense of calm she felt washing over Kael was indication enough that he understood the technique she instructed him on, and was using it successfully. The signs of struggle vanished from his face and only a serenity was seen. He no longer needed to fight, for the more energy she fed into him, the stronger his shields became, so he took it in graciously. "Now, I'm going to withdraw, Kael, but keep that shield as strong as it is now, without using my energy. Once it is secure enough, use it to lock away your emotions."

Without allowing his concentration to waver, Kael nodded. He renewed his calm and readied himself for Laedra's withdrawal.

"Very well." Instead of pulling away gently, Laedra extracted herself abruptly, deliberately attempting to shake Kael's concentration.

Kael fought to stabilize himself against Laedra's retreat and mostly managed it. Once she was free of his mind, he did as she'd instructed. It took several moments for him to finish, but once he had, he nodded. "I've done it."

"Very well." Laedra remained silent for a moment, and unwittingly to Kael, examined the shield he'd built up. She nodded approval then said, "Pick up the lightsaber. Not with your hands, but pick it up."

Kael reached out and sensed the lightsaber on his belt. He felt it with his Force-attuned senses. As if taking it into his hand, he wrapped his mind around it and lifted upward. He felt it tug against his belt, but it wouldn't budge further. He concentrated on the mechanism to release the hilt, but it was far too intricate for his limited skill. Despite the hurdle he'd reached, the lightsaber remained suspended in the air.

Laedra grinned and reached over to unclip the lightsaber for Kael. As she did, the hilt hovered in the air. "Open your eyes, Kael Selrid."

Kael opened his eyes slowly to see his lightsaber hovering in front of him in the air. He smiled. "I'll need to work on getting that clip unhooked," he said, and then laughed.

Laedra smiled genially and rose. Whether he knew it or not, he had just learned an invaluable lesson. It was up to him now to discover what purpose it served. Laedra bowed at Kael, then said, "Good day, Padawan Selrid," before turning and striding leisurely from the room.

Kael looked up, a little surprised at Laedra's quick departure. He stood and bowed after her. "Good day to you as well, Master Laedra."

***

"Training session's over, Liam," Laedra said as he slipped beside her in the corridor.

"I know," Liam said. "I watched from above. You did very well with him. And, you made a lot of progress in that short amount of time."

"Overseeing my work?" Laedra asked with an arched brow. "Did I pass?"

Liam shook his head. "I was just observing," he said. "I wasn't overseeing. It is not for me to decide whether you pass or not."

Laedra smiled. "I wasn't being accusatory. I guess I have to work on my sarcasm."

"Still," Liam said, "you did well with him. And, you got him farther than I had with moving things around."

"We each have our own techniques, and some work better than others depending on the student. Mine merely suited Kael far better." Laedra slipped her arms into the sleeves of her robe, keeping her hands from straying to Liam if the urge arose. "What will you be doing today? Anything planned?"

"I have nothing currently planned," Liam said. "I know Jae Dyn is planning a trip to Thanatos. I have not decided which activity to busy myself with." He glanced at her. "You?"

"Nothing at the moment. I was thinking of finally taking a tour of the upper levels of the Temple I have yet to see." Laedra smiled and looked sidelong at Liam. "Why do you ask?"

Liam laughed. "Because you asked me," he said. "Did you want to take that tour alone, or would you like company?"

"Are you offering, Liam Zaneth?"

"Yes," Liam said with a glance in Lae's direction. "Yes, I'm offering."

Laedra smiled demurely. "Not afraid of danger, are you?"

Liam met Laedra's eyes and returned the smile. "I like danger," he said.

"I can tell," Laedra replied with a laugh. "You didn't seem to think so earlier, however. Has your opinion changed?"

"I just know that I enjoy spending time near you," Liam said. "And, I think we both have enough self-control to keep ourselves from doing anything we shouldn't yet. Though, I think I should talk to Yelara."

"What?" Laedra stopped abruptly and turned to face Liam. "Talk about what, Liam? About how I promised I was not pursuing her husband, meanwhile I am doing just that?"

Liam nodded. "Okay," he said. "No talking to Yelara. She wouldn't take kindly to the idea of the two of us getting close anyway."

"Look..." Laedra sighed. "We need that walk, Liam. There are some things I wish to discuss with you which would be best done so away from prying ears."

Liam nodded. "I agree," he said. "Do you want to explore the upstairs? Or should we go out of the Temple completely? There are some old trails out around the Temple we could walk upon."

"Wherever you think is safer, Liam. Although you and I alone is never safe."

"Let's head outside for a walk," he said. "It's the safest place to talk without being overheard." He locked his hands behind his back and started toward the exit with Laedra at his side. They'd walked for about fifteen minutes in silence before either was comfortable speaking what was on their mind. The only sound outside their footsteps were the birds and small animals that inhabited the forest. Finally, Liam turned to her. "I don't think there's any chance of us being overheard out here."

"I guess that's a consequence of this...relationship we've chosen to engage in. If we continue to do so, I believe we must expect to become very adept at stealth and deceit."

Liam nodded. "Two skills I nearly mastered in my past life," he said. He took her hand into his and gazed at her for a long moment. "What are you thinking, Lae?"

"I'm thinking that this is very wrong, Liam," she replied. "I'm thinking that you're jeopardizing your marriage to indulge in lust caused by pure infatuation. I'm thinking I am the biggest hypocrite who existed, for I just finished teaching Kael to control his emotions, yet mine are a tumultuous mess right now."

He nodded slowly and let go of her hand. "I know," he said. "To all those things, I know. But, it's not just lust through infatuation. We've connected at a deeper level, Laedra. We have something special between us...that I can't have with Yelara. The two of you are very different in many ways, but similar in others. And, I can't help caring for you. I don't like sneaking around and hiding, and that's why I thought about talking to her. Perhaps...perhaps it's possible for me to explain this and be able to be with you too." He let out a breath and shook his head. "I don't know."

"Neither do I, Liam." Laedra sighed and moved away from Liam towards a tree with overhanging, purple leaves. She pressed her back to the thick trunk and slowly slid to the ground. "I know how I feel when I'm around you, and I know how wrong this is... I just can't help feeling that you're risking your marriage for nothing. You have Yelara and Jae Dyn... You have a child, Liam, one you could lose if Yelara finds out about us. Do you want that? Am I worth all that?"

Liam sighed. "You're worth very much," he said as he moved to examine one of the other trees. "I don't want to lose them, but I don't want to lose the chance to have something with you. I am risking very much, I know; but, I also know how I feel when I'm near you. I can't remember the last time I felt as free as I do with you."

"But you love Yelara. And this doesn't mean you and I can't be near each other as we have been, but I don't know if we should proceed beyond this." Laedra pulled her knees up to her chest and rested her forehead upon them to hide her face and give herself a moment to compose herself. "We have to end this now, Liam," she said quietly. "It'll hurt less if we do so before either of us become far too attached. Before..." Laedra raised her head, her eyes glazed over with a wall of tears ready to collapse and spill down her cheeks. "We have to do this before I realize I truly am falling in love with you."

Liam closed his eyes and turned away. He slowly nodded despite himself. He didn't want to agree. He wanted to continue what they'd started, to explore his feelings for her. But, he knew he could not hurt Yelara or Leshie like that. "Okay," he said with a ragged voice. "We stop this now, and continue professionally."

"I'm sorry, Liam," she said barely audibly. "I wanted this... But I couldn't bear to see you hurt. If you lose Leshie and Yelara...you'll never forgive yourself. You've come so far, Liam, and I'd hate to see it all thrown away because I didn't put an end to this before it went too far."

He nodded. "I'm trying to understand," he said. "It's just so difficult. I want this too, to be with you, and I know it could ruin everything else. But...I can't do this to them. If only all of us...all of us could...if she could allow you and I to be together, and it'd be alright. If she could allow me to be with you too, like she is with Kallia..." He took a deep breath, and let it out. "But she wouldn't. It's alright for her to have a lover aside from me...but, not me."

Laedra rose and moved to Liam's side. She reached out a hand to press to his cheek, but decided not to make it harder for either of them. "Don't think like that, Liam. Don't resent her for this. You can't change the person she is, and you can't change that you love her. If you didn't, you wouldn't be so torn right now."

Liam slowly looked up to meet her gaze. "I know," he said. He sighed, and nodded. "Should we go back?"

"You should," Laedra said dejectedly, although she was using all her training and resolve to keep it from being too obvious. "I think... I need to be alone. I have to... I need..." Laedra gnawed on her lower lip and pressed her back to the tree with her face averted from Liam. It would only be more difficult for both of them if he saw the struggle she was putting up against the tears that seemed so intent upon flowing. "I wish it didn't have to be this way," she whispered.

"That makes two of us," Liam said. "It's probably best this way, Lae, but I don't know if I can just turn off my love for you."

Laedra tried to keep her vision focused as the hot tears ran from her eyes, but no amount of mental shielding could keep her emotions locked tightly away within her. She shifted her watery gaze to Liam, wishing Liam hadn't mentioned the one word that made it all the more difficult. "You don't love me, Liam. Please tell me you don't."

Liam took a step back and turned away. "I wish I could tell you that," he said. "It would make this so much easier if I could. But...but, I can't."

"Liam," Laedra pleaded desperately, "don't say that." She shifted around and faced his hunched back, seeing the defeat and helplessness in his posture. "Don't you know how different that makes everything? If it had been just infatuation, or lust...then I would have felt somewhat less distressed over having to push you away. And I know I still should... Gods, Liam...what are we going to do?"

"What can we do?" he asked. "I don't think we have any choice, not without ruining things." He turned back to her. "What do you want, Laedra? If you could have things the way that you wanted them, what would you want in this situation?"

"I..." Laedra looked to the forest floor, seeking inspiration and courage. All she found, however, was the need to be with Liam. "If I had a choice," she said softly, "I would not have gotten us into this position. But now that we're here, and now that I know you share the sentiments I feel for you..." Laedra shook her head slowly. "I can't do this, Liam. I can't let you go. I know it's only been a few days, but the things I feel for you won't go away. I don't want it to end like this."

Liam moved slowly to Laedra and took her gently into his arms. "We'll go slowly, and try to find a way to make it work. I think, even with as fiercely as we're drawn together, I think we can both resist the other temptations. But, we'll find companionship in each other when we can, and try to find a way to make this work. I can't give you up; I can't let you go either."

"It's not even about the...physical aspect," Laedra said as her hands clutched at his tunic. "I am attracted to you, but there's more to it, Liam. I need your humour and your strength. I need your self-assuredness and confidence, things I lack at times. I don't want to lose that...or you."

Liam brushed his lips against hers and closed his eyes. "I need your wisdom and focus, your devotion and drive. We compliment each other very well, Lae. It's uncanny, and amazing."

"And trouble." Laedra brought her fingers to Liam's lips and lightly caressed them. "But we don't have to do anything to jeopardize your marriage. We don't need to be physical, Liam. I just need to be near you and share my thoughts and insecurities with you... I just need you, Liam."

Liam smiled. "I like the sound of that," he said. "We'll be very close friends, and we'll see what happens. We'll make this work...just like everything we set as our goals."

"We have to," Laedra said as her lips went to Liam's cheek. "It hurts too much to even think about being without you now."

"We won't have to worry about that," Liam said. "We won't have to not have each other, not ever again."

"We'll be careful," Laedra mumbled as her lips scoured his face and mouth. "I don't want to ruin your marriage, so we'll be careful."

Liam laughed and returned what kisses he could. "Very careful," he said. "And, despite our differences, I do love Yelara and Leshie. Very much so. But, I couldn't help falling in love with you too. It would have been much easier if we were only capable of loving a single person, but I don't think I would ever want that."

Laedra laughed and looked up at Liam. "You're right. You certainly do like danger."

"I seem to have trouble avoiding it at times," Liam said with a grin. "It definitely makes life interesting, that's for certain."

Laedra nodded her head and clung to Liam a moment longer before pulling back. She took his hand into hers and brought it to her lips. "We shouldn't stay out here too long. We don't want to arouse any suspicions."

Liam smiled and reversed the hold she had on his hand so he could place a kiss on her open palm, and then wrist. "Let's start heading back then," he said. "We can take the first part slowly, and maybe turn the second part into a workout. Nothing like a good run for keeping the body primed."

"And for cancelling certain human urges," Laedra supplied shyly. "But you have Yelara to help you with that. I, however, require much meditation to quell those urges."

"Yelara can never quench my desire to be with you," Liam said. "Only you'd be able to do that. So, in order to get my mind free of you, I also require meditation."

"Then perhaps when we return to the Temple, we should have another meditation session." Laedra's fingers laced with Liam's and with a smile, she began backing away. "Do cold showers really work?" she asked with a grin.

Liam laughed. "They do," he said. "It's hard to think about anything else when you're freezing parts of your anatomy off."

"But I am assuming they only work if you're showering alone," she ventured with a daringly sly grin.

"I've never tried a cold shower with anyone else," Liam said with another laugh. "I imagine the results would probably be about the same, until you both get out of the shower, and you're no longer being frozen...but still need to warm up."

Laedra stared pensively into Liam's eyes until she looked away, blushing and grinning bashfully. "Perhaps we should avoid conversation that touches upon...that topic. We'd only make things more difficult for ourselves."

Liam took a deep breath and nodded. "That sounds like a very good idea. Perhaps we can use that exercise now."

Laedra laughed and quickly kissed Liam upon the cheek. "A definite necessity." She paused to look one last time upon his face, remembering how close it came to ending before it began. She refused to allow that to happen again. With another light-hearted laugh, Laedra pulled her hand from Liam's and sped down the trail. "See you back at the Temple, unless you get there first!"

With a laugh, Liam started after her. It felt good to run, to let his mind focus on his body's exertion and not on his feelings for Laedra and where they may lead him. He was happy that they would try to make their relationship work, but he was also wary of what may happen with his marriage. He would never give Yelara up, not for anything...but if she found out about his feelings for Laedra, he was uncertain how she would react. He only hoped that if the time came when he needed to tell her, that he could temper her anger with their love.

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